May I register my disappointment and preoccupation at the number of mobile phone antennae and other apparatus that have been installed in recent months on Balzan parish church by the three companies providing cellular telephony in Malta.

The dome of the church has been transformed into a web of antennae, wires and metal trunking which is not only ruining its aesthetic and artistic value but also causing structural damage that is bound to increase in the years to come.

For the installation of this apparatus, tens of screws and bolts have been riveted into the stonework of this 300-year-old dome which, till a few months ago, was a pleasure to look at.

As if that were not enough, a sizeable part of the ornamental moulding adorning one of the windows of the dome was broken.

I am aware that the parish pockets a few hundred euros a year by allowing this. But does this justify ruining our artistic heritage?

In my opinion, this is highly discordant with the policy and line of thought the Church in Malta is professing to be following regarding the preservation and conservation of the environment and our cultural heritage.

May I appeal to people of goodwill who have our patrimony at heart to voice their complaints before it is too late. The people of Balzan should take courage from other neighbouring parishes which did not succumb to pecuniary pressures and opposed the fixing of these monstrosities on their churches.

A special heartfelt appeal to the professional people at the Archbishop's Curia, who ultimately have the power and duty to safeguard the religious heritage of our nation, to examine the case I have brought up and take the measures they deem fit.