Local graveyard security procedures to come under scrutiny

By Mary Dennehy

A REVIEW of local burial grounds is currently being undertaken by South Dublin County Council in a bid to examine whether the structures in place are the most effective for this “highly sensitive and specialised” service.

For a number of years, concerns have been raised locally about the maintenance, upkeep and security of graveyards such as Bohernabreena in Tallaght, Esker in Lucan and Palmerstown Cemetery – with people believing that additional resources need to be assigned to the care of graveyards across the county.

A spokes-woman for South Dublin County Council this week confirmed to The Echo that the local authority is currently undertaking a Burial Ground Review.

She said: “The objective of this review is to ascertain whether the structures, practices, policies and procedures in place are the most effective for the delivery of the Burial Grounds service across the County.

“As part of the review, the establishment of current requirements, capacity, resources and needs in terms of Burial Grounds will inform the development of a Burial Ground Strategy to ensure that future requirements, sustainable income levels and needs are met over the next five to 10 years in the provision of this highly sensitive and specialised service.”

The review is expected to be complete within the coming weeks and that new measures will be put in place.

Tallaght Central Sinn Fein councillor Charlie O’Connor told The Echo: “It is important that council management has acknowledged that problems do exist which are of concern to the local community, especially those who visit the cemetery.

“However, I am renewing my calls to the council for action in respect of concerns brought to me mainly around Bohernabreena Cemetery – and I will continue to give it particular attention.”