# Policy & Representation Page

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POLICY & REPRESENTATION

A Stronger Voice for Gozo’s Primary Sectors

GCAF brings the experience of Gozo’s farmers, livestock and dairy producers, fishers and sector organisations into the discussions and decisions that shape their future.

Representation That Starts on the Ground

Effective policy begins with understanding what is actually happening on farms, in fishing communities and across the businesses that support Gozo’s primary sectors.

GCAF works directly with sector representatives to identify problems, develop common positions and communicate practical proposals to the institutions responsible for policy, regulation and investment.

Our approach is based on evidence, dialogue and workable solutions.

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Local

Understanding the realities experienced by producers and fishers across Gozo.

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National

Representing sector priorities with Government ministries, departments and national authorities.

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European

Ensuring Gozo’s particular circumstances are reflected in wider European agricultural, fisheries and rural policy discussions.

Our Policy Priorities

GCAF focuses on the issues that have a direct impact on the viability, competitiveness and future of Gozo’s agriculture, livestock and fisheries sectors.
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Agricultural Land

Protecting productive agricultural land and supporting its continued use by genuine farmers.

GCAF advocates for policies that preserve Gozo’s agricultural base while recognising the economic realities faced by active farmers.

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Water for Agriculture

Reliable access to water is essential for agricultural production.

GCAF supports sustainable water management, greater resilience to drought and practical investment in agricultural water infrastructure.

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Dairy & Livestock

Supporting the long-term viability of Gozo’s livestock and dairy farms.

Priorities include production costs, infrastructure, environmental obligations, animal welfare, farm investment and market competitiveness.

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Fisheries

Representing the interests of Gozo’s fishing community.

GCAF supports appropriate harbour infrastructure, viable fishing livelihoods, sustainable fisheries and policies that recognise the particular realities of island-based fishing.

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Costs & Island Competitiveness

Operating from Gozo can mean additional transport, logistics and access costs.

GCAF works to ensure that island-related disadvantages are considered when support measures and policies are designed.

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Young Farmers & Fishers

The future of Gozo’s primary sectors depends on the next generation.

GCAF supports access to investment, land, training, technology and opportunities that allow young people to build viable livelihoods.

Environmental & Climate Resilience

Agriculture and fisheries are directly exposed to changing environmental conditions.

Drought, extreme temperatures, storms, changing rainfall patterns and pressure on natural resources increasingly affect how Gozo’s primary sectors operate.

GCAF supports policies that help producers adapt while ensuring that environmental requirements remain practical, proportionate and achievable.

Key areas include

  • Climate adaptation
  • Water efficiency
  • Soil protection
  • Nutrient and manure management
  • Farm resilience
  • Energy efficiency
  • Renewable energy
  • Sustainable fisheries
  • Extreme weather preparedness

CAP, EU Policy & Funding

European policy has a major influence on agriculture, fisheries and rural development in Gozo.

GCAF works to ensure that the island’s particular circumstances are taken into account in discussions relating to the Common Agricultural Policy, fisheries policy, rural development and European funding.

We also seek to improve awareness of opportunities that can support investment, innovation and resilience.

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A Gozitan Perspective in European Policy

Policies designed at national and European level need to recognise the realities of smaller island regions.

GCAF works to ensure that Gozo is not treated simply as an extension of a larger mainland market.

How GCAF Develops a Position

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1. Listen

Issues are raised directly by farmers, livestock producers, fishers and member organisations.

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2. Assess

GCAF considers the scale of the issue, its impact and the experience of affected stakeholders.

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3. Develop

Where appropriate, the Confederation develops a common sector position or practical recommendation.

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4. Represent

The issue is raised with the relevant authority, policymaker or institution.

Policy Documents & Consultations

GCAF may publish policy positions, consultation responses, recommendations, submissions and reports relating to issues affecting Gozo’s agriculture and fisheries sectors.
VIEW RESOURCES

Help Shape Our Representation

GCAF’s strongest evidence comes from the people working within the sector. If an issue is affecting your farm, fishing activity or wider sector, tell us what is happening.
RAISE AN ISSUE
CONTACT GCAF
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