JAN 31

The Ministry of Health, Social Security and the Environment held its Second Consultation last week Thursday on the status of cemeteries at a meeting held at Bain's Hall, Grenville, St. Andrew's.

Minister of Health, Social Security and the Environment Senator Ann David-Antoine, who spoke of the importance of cemeteries for cultural, sentimental and historical reasons, addressed the consultation, which was attended by a wide cross section of residents.

Senior Environmental Health Officer Benedict Peters gave an overview of the status of cemeteries, pointing out the Ministry's responsibility for the upkeep and maintenance of all public cemeteries, as well as record keeping.

He noted that the Ministry was not satisfied with the job done and, at the same time, was responding to public concerns regarding the status of cemeteries.

Senior Planning Officer Tessa Stroude outlined the fee structure, which ranges from $1.50 per spot for graves at Brunswick, Carriacou to $50.00 to $75.00 at the Top Cemetery in St. George's.

She also presented proposed changes regarding the fees, which were determined in consultation with Funeral Agencies. The proposed fees are $100.00 for grave spots at all public cemeteries and $300.00 for tombs.

Much discussion focused on the proposed increases. Although participants felt that the increases are justified, it was thought such increases should be incremental.

It was also suggested that all public cemeteries be fenced to prevent encroachment by the public for housing purposes and tethering of animals and that if money is unavailable, hedges could be planted to act as fencing.

It was suggested that the Ministry of Heath work with the Ministry of Agriculture, Land Use Department, to develop a Land Use Policy, as well as identify alternative sites to be used as cemeteries.

It was also suggested that in cases where persons want to bury their loved ones in family plots, such plots should also be certified by the Ministry of Health and the Land Use Department because of the environmental factors involved, as well as any future plans for development.

the discussions were said to be cordial and the Ministry of Health promised to report back to the public in six months time.