Making proper arrangements gives peace of mind
FUNERAL arrangements is not a topic of conversation people like to spend much time ruminating over but life sometimes demands that we make provision for situations we would rather not comprehend. Sadly, funerals is one aspect we wish could be omitted from the list of priorities. The vast majority of funeral arrangements are made by family or friends of the deceased which can be made easier if the person leaves specific instructions about where to be buried/cremated and the type of service that should take place. This can be done by making a will or by simply entrusting those around you with the necessary details.
Seeking the services of a local funeral director will help you cope with issues like sensitivity, confidentiality and a commitment to care, whilst leaving the customer in control of decisions. Professionalism and a quality of service in arranging and conducting the funeral is also one of the benefits of having a funeral director. In terms of burials, most plots are owned by local authorities who appoint a registrar or caretaker to oversee the running of each burial ground and individuals can pre-purchase a plot in advance. However, one should contact the local authorities in advance as grave plots can vary in price and availability. Naturally, pre-existing family plots are also reused and the funeral director will often arrange this for you as part of the overall service.
Regarding cremations, it’s now estimated that 15 to 20% of funerals in Ireland now take place in crematoriums. There are five crematoriums in Ireland (three in Dublin) with the nearest to Kerry being The Island Crematorium in Cork and the Shannon Crematorium in Limerick which opened in June 2017. A funeral director will advise you on the statutory and legal requirements regarding cremations as some burials may be permitted outside of burial grounds, such as family owned land. But it is worthwhile seeking advice in advance as it isn’t as straight forward as one might seem and complications are sure to arise without proper consultation.
In terms of gravestones, there is usually no shortage of stonemasons and suppliers of gravestones locally to help you in your choice of monument where prices, styles and designs can be pre-arranged. It is also possible to design a headstone yourself, but normally the funeral director you employ can arrange the construction and installation of the headstone. It is necessary to obtain permission before erecting headstones, but the funeral director can arrange things here also. Understandably, we all know that death is something for which preparation is reluctantly considered. Although for many people, knowing they have finalised their own arrangements in this world can come as a powerful source of personal and spiritual comfort and it is worth taking just a little time to consider this with those closest to you in life..