I would like to support the sentiments expressed by Franco Scicluna on the question of an airlink for Gozo (July 25). I, too, was at Roy Perry's recent presentation and some key points arose which the government ought to be actively considering.
First, it is no longer feasible to consider the option of a helicopter service as being economically viable, especially in these days of exponentially increasing fuel costs. Fixed wing aircraft are several times cheaper to run.
Second, certain types of fixed wing aircraft have been successful linking many island communities similar to ours in the Mediterranean, in northern Europe, the Caribbean, the Indian Ocean and the Pacific. There are precedents on which to draw experience.
Third, Gozo's economy suffers from double insularity. It would benefit from having wider direct links to the outside world.
Fourth, Ryannair is understood to be establishing a route to Ragusa in Sicily. Gozo is closer to Sicily than Malta. Joining up with a major airline directly and cutting Luqa and Cirkewwa out of the loop would be attractive to incoming tourists, residents and, perhaps, commuting businessmen alike.
Fifth, the footprint required to establish a suitable airstrip would not impact the environment adversely, if the existing heliport and its immediate, largely moribund, hinterland were to be utilised. The ensuing runway would be measured in hundreds, not thousands, of metres.
Sixth, if investment in a new airstrip takes place, the opportunity for spin-off benefits are readily apparent. One that is being mooted is the opportunity to build a massive underground reservoir to take water run-off from the winter downpours. We all know that water is going to be a key issue in the decades to come. The Eco Island strategy would benefit (particularly as the EU are looking for tangible ideas to justify support).
Seventh, why does the public purse have to be utilised exclusively? If a public-private partnership is considered there is at least one foreign entrepreneur who is known to be interested in investing in infrastructure.
To my certain knowledge, Mr Perry has put years of research into the question of a sustainable airlink for Gozo, with no expectation of reward - other than perhaps seeing a dream realised. Now, opinion on the ground is growing that something ought to be done. The least the Government could do would be to acknowledge this. But platitudes are no longer enough. There needs to be some form of tangible action.
Next action might be for Price Waterhouse, or equivalent, to be commissioned to do a preliminary opportunity-risk assessment, on which a business case might be built. This should be wide-ranging, involving public opinion, business opinion, technical and financial feasibility, price-modelling, ROI estimates - and particularly include such questions as whether overseas companies would be more interested in investing in Gozo and perhaps regenerating the dilapidated Xewkija Industrial Estate (perhaps rebranded as "Smart Village"? But that is another story!). Certainly a holistic approach, for the benefit of the island, would make sense.
This letter is intended to provoke. There will no doubt be others, both for and against. But if you go to www.gozoairlink.blogspot.com you will see just where public opinion is on this right now. I hope the government in its broader sense (not just our ministry) takes note.
Joseph G. Grech, is the CEO of the Gozo Business Chamber. He is a businessman. Right. Gozitans are fully aware what type of business Mr. Grech is into! The rumour goes that if you need a MEPA permit approval, better join in the Grechs. This is his contribution on The Times today.
