Cemetery safety row
Linda Fabiani MSP is in talks with South Lanarkshire Council over their rolling programme of safety inspections at Philipshill Cemetery.
This comes a year after the News told how the situation was shrouded in controversy, with grieving relatives appalled to discover loved ones ’lairs had been identified as unsafe.
Now the area’s MSP has accused the council of an “over estimation of risk ”.
Last year South Lanarkshire Council (SLC) insisted it had a duty of care to provide a safe environment in its cemeteries after eight-year-old Ciaran Williamson died when a headstone fell on him in a Glasgow graveyard.
But the MSP said the council’s approach had been excessive and was a misapplication of government guidelines, which state “each memorial should be risk assessed, including considering the dimensions which are proportionate to potential injury”.
Plot owners branded the council insensitive and disrespectful after eyesore safety notices were stuck on more than 200 headstones which had been propped up with wooden stakes and straps. In some cases the headstone was laid flat on the ground.
Ms Fabiani said:“Quite rightly, the council must work to maintain public safety. However, I think it is also important to acknowledge the sensitivity of this matter and that everyone wants the same result: cemeteries that are safe but also kept in a respectful way.
“The new guidance suggests that councils implement an inspection policy following consultation with stakeholders, such as lair-holders and the wider public, and to review the policy on an ongoing basis.
“I would urge the council to take heed and improve its consultation and awareness-raising exercises.
“I will discuss the issues at Philipshill Cemetery and encourage the council to reflect on its practices to prevent similar issues occurring at East Kilbride Cemetery.”
Michael McGlynn, the council’s executive director of community and enterprise resources, said:“We are clear that, irrespective of size, all headstones are to be inspected every five years.
“We have prioritised our inspection programme based on visitors, number of memorials and population served. We consider, based on guidance, that this is the most appropriate way forward.
“East Kilbride Cemetery is part of this rolling programme and will be inspected next year.
“Bereavement services have fully responded to Ms Fabiani’s office on this matter, as well as previous responses to similar requests, and has offered to meet with the MSP or her representatives to discuss any concerns they might still have.”