The Government-Church committee which is organising the Papal visit has set up an info line - with number 188 - to assist all those wishing to know anything about the visit, which will take place in three weeks' time.

The committee is now operating out of a coordination centre near Middlesea Sea House, just metres from the Granaries, where Pope Benedict will celebrate Mass on April 18. The centre is a hive of activity bringing together all aspects of the organisation of the visit including logistics, security and first aid.

Mgr Charles Cordina, who heads the Church organisers, said preparations were proceeding smoothly and picking up momentum.

He said that a set of eight publicity spots would be presented on television in the coming days to raise awareness of the forthcoming visit. The spots will feature comments by the President, the Archbishop, families and youths, among others.

The helpline will from next week be available between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m. In the following week it will be available to 10 p.m. while during the days of the papal visit it will be available from 6 a.m. to midnight.