It's hoped the local authority will exercise a degree of good will in the enforcement of legislation regarding the minimum depth of graves.
A controversial rule requiring graves to be eight foot deep has been removed from the county's Burial Ground Bye-Laws but concerns have been expressed that it will continue to be enforced in certain circumstances.
A range of measures aimed at improved management and regulation of burial grounds in Clare will come into affect next month after the county's Burial Ground Bye-Laws were approved by members of Clare County Council last evening.
The bye-laws contain 39 clauses on the size and purchase of burial plots, the recording of burials and requirements governing headstones and monuments.
The sale of goods, recording equipment, parking, health and safety, regulation and penalties are also covered.
But it's the rule regarding the minimum depth of graves that has raised the most concern.
The requirement that graves should be 8 feet deep has been removed from the county's burial ground bye-laws, as national regulations allow for a lesser depth – in cases where there's HSE approval.
Lahinch Councillor Bill Slattery opposed the bye-laws at last night's meeting as he fears national regulations will take precedence
But Councillor Pat Hayes, who is the Chairman of the Special Policy Committee dealing with the issue hopes that Clare County Council will exercise good will in cases where its not possible to comply with legislation.
