The project was divided into three phases, with the fourth phase starting next year. The first phase saw the restoration of the parish priest’s house next door as well as the necessary preparations and studies for the restoration of the painting on the ceiling of the church. The restoration of this painting is the fourth phase of this project. The second phase included the restoration of the bronze bust and the marble on the facade of the church. In the following phase, the rest of the facade was restored. Minister Zammit thanked all those involved in the restoration of the magnificent church, especially Din l-Art Helwa and PricewaterhouseCoopers. He said the work was carried out by workers of two sections within his ministry: the Rehabilitation Projects Section and the Restoration Unit. He added that other projects being carried out at present include the restoration of the St Gregory Chapel in Zejtun, Sarria Chapel in Floriana, work on the Argotti Gardens and work at the Palace in Valletta. Mr Zammit said the government was investing in these workers by training them and by sending them to courses at university and elsewhere. This proved the government’s commitment to the restoration of Malta’s precious cultural heritage, he said