Discussions between the Government and MIDI plc over the future of Manoel Island are said to be progressing slowly but without any disputes between MIDI and developer Anton Camilleri, known as Tal-Franċiż, despite recent reports suggesting otherwise.

Speaking to WhosWho.mt, a MIDI spokesperson dismissed claims that the company is facing pressure from Mr Camilleri seeking compensation related to the project.

“There is no litigation between the parties,” the spokesperson told The Shift News on Sunday, reiterating that same phrase to this newsroom and adding that “so far no issues on that front” have arisen.

When asked to confirm whether there had been any legal correspondence or tensions with Mr Camilleri’s company, AC Enterprises Ltd, the spokesperson maintained that “non-litigation means no disagreements – in or out of court.”

Mr Camilleri's AC Enterprises entered a non-binding memorandum of understanding with MIDI back in 2021, exploring the possibility of establishing a joint venture for the development of Manoel Island. 

The report over the weekend claimed that Mr Camilleri is now seeking compensation from MIDI for loss of business after the company agreed to return Manoel Island to public hands. 

However, MIDI's spokesperson stressed that MIDI is only seeking reimbursement for “costs incurred and consideration paid,” and not for any “compensation for loss of profits."

Claims that discussions over a possible out-of-court settlement regarding the return of Manoel Island to the public had stalled, allegedly due to Mr Camilleri’s request for significant compensation, are being firmly rejected by MIDI.

The spokesperson for MIDI say they do not believe the report accurately reflects the situation, maintaining that no disagreements exist between the parties.

While MIDI has stated that negotiations with the Government are ongoing, it remains unclear when a final decision on the future of Manoel Island will be reached.