Mid and East Antrim residents praised for social distancing at cemeteries

Mid and East Antrim residents are observing rules on social distancing following the reopening of cemeteries, the borough council has reported.
Larne (Greenland) Cemetery, Upper Cairncastle Road.Larne (Greenland) Cemetery, Upper Cairncastle Road.
Larne (Greenland) Cemetery, Upper Cairncastle Road.

The Northern Ireland Executive announced that cemeteries would be accessible again to the public on the basis that measures around social distancing and hygiene were adhered to.

Larne DUP Councillor Andrew Clarke praised people for following the public health guidelines when visiting cemeteries over recent days.

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He said: “Government must always consider the impact of its decisions on ordinary people, and seek to be as compassionate as possible.

“In countering Covid-19, measures must be proportionate, effective and constantly reviewed.

“The opening of the cemeteries is a good example of how decision making should be made as close to the ground as we can, giving local residents as much say as we can.

“Many have been in touch with me, telling of their first visit back to a loved one. Their love and dignity have been inspiring.”

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Cemeteries in Mid and East Antrim, for pedestrian access only, are open from 10am until 4pm every day.

Vehicular access to Ballymena (Cushendall Road and Ballee), Larne (Craighyhill) and Carrickfergus (Victoria), for those with mobility issues, will be available from 9am to 10pm each day.

Public health guidelines and advice are signposted at all cemeteries, with staff present at our main graveyards.

Council staff will control access during any burials to ensure the utmost respect and dignity for grieving families.

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Visitors, Mid and East Antrim Council said, should follow the strict guidelines on protecting public health by adhering to social distancing and staying at least two metres away from another person while attending a cemetery, unless with members of their own household.

No one should visit a cemetery if they or a member of their household is experiencing symptoms of coronavirus.

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