Tunnel linking Malta to Gozo most viable option – Muscat; 'Queue' of consortia interested in project

A tunnel linking Malta to Gozo looks to be the most viable option, Prime Minister Joseph Muscat said today. Addressing a conference in Gozo organised by the pro-tunnel movement, Dr Muscat said the government intends to move forward with a project linking the two islands. Dr Muscat said that while he agrees with the project, all the necessary studies need to be carried out first, including geological studies. The government will also look at different ownership models, and cited the possibility of a public-private partnership. Dr Muscat said the tunnel would need to be part of a wider transport network on both islands. He warned that the controversy over the project will likely ramp up in the coming months. The first task he said, is seeing how to fund all the necessary studies which will costs millions. He said the link would have to be used at a fee to guarantee its financial viability.  He recalled that the Chinese government had agreed to fund a feasibility study for a bridge, but agreed that the tunnel seems to be the most viable option. Dr Muscat said the future of the Gozo Channel service also needs to be considered. He said it is time to introduce a fast ferry service...