Derry proposal to waive burial fees during COVID-19 passes unanimously at April meeting of Council

The Mayor's suggestion that fees at all-owned Council cemeteries be waived was unanimously supported, pending a full report, detailing cost and how it could be implemented, to come before members in the coming weeks.

She said she looked forward to receiving a full report from officers on how this could be brought forward in the coming weeks.

She said the proposal, if ratified, would be a compassionate gesture by the Council to all those who have experienced loss during the COVID-19 emergency.

"I was delighted to get full cross party support on my proposal, as a Mayors Initiative, to waiver burial fees across the city and district during this difficult crisis as families are dealing with the trauma of not been afforded the proper burial of a loved one and the current financial hardships that people are facing at this time," said the mayor.

SDLP Derry and Strabane District Council leader, Councillor Martin Reilly said: “I welcome the plan for Derry City and Strabane District Council to waive burial fees for the duration of this pandemic.

"Councillors from all parties recognise the difficulty and pain families will feel if they lose a loved one, in these tragic circumstances. Having to worry about the financial cost is the very last thing they need.”

“This is rooted in compassion and recognises that many people have had their income reduced or removed altogether and cannot grieve in the usual way. Providing some comfort for them is the least we can do.”

Sinn Féin Councillor and group leader Sandra Duffy said: “I very much welcome the news that this proposal by the Mayor Michaela Boyle was unanimously passed at today’s monthly council meeting.

“These are very stressful times for anyone who loses a love one during this corona-virus pandemic with restrictions being placed on funerals and wakes.

“This move will go some way to ease the financial burden on families in these very trying times."