The Malta Entertainment Industry and Arts Association (MEIA) has insisted that it has not withdrawn its call for Arts Minister Malcolm Paul Agius Galea to resign or be reassigned, despite being informed that neither will happen.In a statement issued on Saturday, the association sought to clarify its position following reports about its latest meeting with the Minister, stressing that acknowledging his decision to remain in office does not mean accepting it.“Reporting that decision does not constitute agreement with it, nor does it change the position expressed in our open letter,” MEIA said.The association reiterated that the anger and frustration within Malta’s arts and entertainment sector stemmed from remarks made by the Minister, which prompted a collective demand for accountability.More than 3,300 individuals and 55 organisations backed an open letter calling for the Minister’s resignation or reassignment, with MEIA subsequently presenting those concerns to Prime Minister Robert Abela.The association also held a four-hour meeting with Agius Galea, during which representatives directly challenged his remarks and explained the impact they had on the artistic community.According to MEIA, the meeting highlighted the widespread frustration and loss of trust felt across the sector, as well as concerns over the lack of formal acknowledgement of what had happened.The association stressed that respectful communication and meaningful engagement must form the basis of any future working relationship between the Minister and the sector.While Agius Galea reportedly expressed a willingness to rebuild trust, MEIA warned that words alone would not be enough.“The Minister’s stated willingness to regain trust must now be demonstrated through his conduct and concrete action,” the association said.“A meeting and assurances do not, in themselves, resolve the concerns raised, and MEIA cannot declare trust restored on behalf of the community.”Despite maintaining its demand for accountability, MEIA acknowledged that it must continue engaging with the Minister while he remains in office to address the needs of those working in the industry.The association made clear that maintaining dialogue should not be interpreted as backing down from its original position.“Maintaining dialogue allows us to convey its demands, challenge decisions and pursue the changes it needs. It does not withdraw our call or release the Minister from accountability.”MEIA said it would continue consulting its members and the wider artistic community, while ensuring that any commitments or developments are communicated transparently.“Our call remains unchanged,” the association reiterated.“At the same time, we must face the reality that, while the Minister remains in office, we need to work with him to address the needs of the sector.”The association concluded by reaffirming its commitment to representing the thousands of artists and cultural workers who supported its call, insisting that respect and accountability remain central to its demands.What do you make of this clarification?•