EU policies should recognise Gozo’s needs, Clint Camilleri says during Brussels meetings

Gozo needs European policies that recognise the specific challenges faced by island regions, Gozo minister Clint Camilleri said.

Speaking in Brussels during meetings with the Conference of Peripheral Maritime Regions delegation, Camilleri said future EU fisheries policy must protect marine resources while ensuring the sector remains economically viable.

He called for a scheme similar to the Young Farmers Initiative to encourage young people to enter fishing, particularly artisanal fisheries in Malta and Gozo.

Camilleri also said there was a need for accessible funding, effective governance and cooperation to ensure European regional development strategies translate into tangible benefits for local businesses and communities.

Furthermore, Camilleri said island regions must be able to turn their local strengths into sustainable economic opportunities.