However, there is also a large number of landmark buildings all over the province which have fallen into decay and disrepair, and urgent action is needed to save some of these best examples of our built heritage.

In today's Belfast Telegraph a number of these are highlighted, including the once-magnificent Carlisle Circus Methodist Church in Belfast, which is in danger of crumbling.

Its condition is so bad that the World Monument Fund, which is trying to focus world attention on the plight of endangered buildings, has placed the Belfast church on its Watch List which also includes the famous Inca ruins of Machu Picchu in Peru.

The cost of restoring the church has risen by some £3m in the past two years, to almost £14m now.

This is serious money, but the Carlisle Circus building is a key part of the historic fabric of Belfast and the entire province.

There are other dire examples of buildings badly in need of help.

They include the former Crumlin Road Court House, the North Street Arcade, and the former Bank of Ireland at the north end of Royal Avenue, as well as a number of other once-beautiful buildings in other parts of Northern Ireland.

Conservationists point out that by saving our built heritage we would also be helping the wider economy by creating jobs and helping to attract tourists.

By investing in our past, we could also be improving our future.

This crucial message must not be overlooked in the midst of our current financial difficulties.