Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1545039
THE Ministry for Gozo and Planning (MGP) continuously works to increase its support to Gozitans, especially those who regularly commute between the islands. This to ease as much as possible the financial and logisti- cal burdens emanating from trav- elling between the islands. This applies especially to those seeking medical assistance in Malta as well as workers, students, and also those engage in sports and similar activities. For those seeking medical atten- tion in Malta, the Ministry cov- ers ferry travel costs for essential medical appointments, such as cancer treatment, renal dialysis, or surgery at state hospitals. Those with early-morning appointments or requiring overnight stays are al- so eligible for an accommodation allowance, capped at €45 per per- son per night, when the appoint- ment is before 8:30 am or when an overnight stay is medically or logistically necessary. This applies equally to Gozo residents travel- ling to Malta and Malta residents travelling to Gozo. These meas- ures ensure that patients can ac- cess medical care safely and com- fortably. Workers commuting to Malta benefit from the Gozo Res- ident Workers' Subsidy. Full-time workers receive a yearly subsidy of €650, while educators and LSEs, who commute less frequently due to academic schedules, receive €525. Workers already receiving transport-related support from their employer, as well as postal workers or those living near the Ċirkewwa Ferry Terminal, receive €300 annually. Subsidies, issued twice a year, also cover collective transport arrangements organized by groups of workers. Students pursuing full-time courses not available in Gozo now receive a monthly allowance of €280, up from €166.66, effective January 2026. The scheme – an- nounced during the 2026 budget speech – includes students at- tending the University of Malta, MCAST, or other accredited in- stitutions, provided they meet res- idency and course requirements. Moreover, Gozitan athletes are supported through the Gozitan Sportsperson Assistance Scheme, which reimburses ferry travel up to €500 per year. This initiative aims to nurture local talent and ensure equal access to sporting opportunities across Malta and Gozo. Through these schemes, the MGP is helping Gozitan residents overcome the challenges of "dou- ble insularity" and ensuring that resources reach those who need them most. The Ministry remains committed to enhancing the qual- ity of life for all Gozitans, whether traveling for medical care, work, education, or sport. 7 gozotoday | FRIDAY • 22 MAY 2026 OPINION Reuben Cassar; Director Community, Inclusion and Services Gozo residents benefit from expanded commuter support schemes