Writing in The Times (May 27) Francis Farrugia asked: "Has St John's Co-Cathedral and Mdina Cathedral been turned into a money-making enterprise like any profane museum?"

The St John's Co-Cathedral Foundation is non-profit making and funds earned through the admission tickets are invested in the conservation, restoration and maintenance of this unique world monument. Although the government does make a substantial financial contribution annually, the accumulated needs of St John's require an ongoing huge investment in order to preserve the Co-Cathedral for future generations. It is primarily, if not exclusively, the duty of all Maltese citizens to contribute towards the preservation of their cultural heritage. However, foreign visitors are ready to pay a fee to tour St John's in order to appreciate its exceptional beauty. The multilingual audio guide is included in the admission ticket in order to make a visit to the Co-Cathedral an educational, cultural and religious experience.

In the past, the Foundation has explained very clearly why St John's has an admission fee during visiting hours and what the Foundation has been doing during the last few years to ensure that the national treasure is professionally looked after. The results are there for all to appreciate. The Foundation has made it very clear, as well through the media, including The Times, that during liturgical celebrations admission to St John's is free while visitors entering St John's to pray are admitted to the Chapel of the Sacrament without having to pay a fee.