Three senior figures within the Malta Development Association (MDA) have stepped down from their roles within the organisation’s council as a result of internal disagreement at the highest levels of the developers’ lobby.

Those resigning are Paul Attard, who served as secretary general, along with council members Pio Vassallo and Anton Camilleri Tal-Franċiż. All three are prominent figures in Malta’s construction and hospitality sectors.

Sources familiar with the situation indicated that the resignations were prompted by a disagreement over a decision taken by the association in recent days.

Speaking to WhosWho.mt, two of the resigning members characterised the dispute as a "personal matter", but were otherwise tight-lipped about the situation. 

Mr Attard, best known for his involvement in the GAP consortium, is the founder of Plan Group, which has expanded its footprint into elderly care.

Mr Camilleri heads AC Group and has been linked to major projects, including proposed high-rise development plans in St George’s Bay on the Villa Rosa site.

Mr Vassallo serves as CEO of Vassallo Group, with interests spanning development, healthcare, catering and education.

MDA response

The MDA, which is headed by Stivala Group's Michael Stivala, confirmed the news and thanked the resigning members for their contribution but providing no detail as to the reason. 

"The Malta Development Association confirms that Mr Paul Attard, Mr Anton Camilleri, and Mr Pio Vassallo have resigned from the Council of the Association.

"The Malta Development Association thanks all three Council members for their service, their commitment, and the contribution they have made during their time on the Council.

"President Michael Stivala expressed the Association’s appreciation for their work and dedication, and thanked them for the role they played in supporting the Association and its objectives.

"The Malta Development Association will continue to move forward with full focus and responsibility, committed to representing the sector in a serious, balanced, and constructive manner in the national interest."