Derry councillor Darren Guy urges Executive to allow controlled opening of cemeteries

Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) Alderman Darren Guy has called for the controlled opening of civic cemeteries.

Alderman Guy said: “The closure of our cemeteries since Monday, March 30 has caused distress to many.

“At the time, we as elected members found it a difficult decision to have to put into place.

“We realised this would cause wide spread distress to many families who seek solace in visiting the graves of their loved ones.

“I would now call for the Executive to reconsider this closure and implement a controlled opening of all cemeteries.

“I believe this can be done in a way that social distancing can be adhered to at all times within our cemeteries.”

SDLP MP Colum Eastwood, meanwhile, has written to Health Minister Robin Swann requesting the latest medical and scientific advice from the Chief Medical Officer and Chief Scientific Officer on proposals to open cemeteries.

Mr. Eastwood said: “The impact of the lockdown has been particularly hard on those experiencing the trauma of losing a loved one. The way we process grief and deal with the death of someone close has been coldly suspended by the coronavirus outbreak, making experiences of loss more difficult to bear. We have a duty, therefore, to approach these matters with sympathy and compassion.

“The need of people to grieve and visit their loved ones is powerful. But it must be balanced with our duty to protect public health, restrict transmission of this virus and prevent further loss. I have written to the Health Minister today requesting that he publishes the latest advice from the CMO and CSO on the prospect of reopening cemeteries and graveyards. We must have the most up to date advice before making decisions.

“The SDLP will be guided by our responsibility to protect people. If possible, we will do all we can to relieve the emotional distress that people are under. But ultimately, we must prevent any unnecessary loss of life. The advice of the CMO and CSO will be critical in making these determinations.”