Action sought over headstones that breach regulations

The issue of grandiose headstones in Coosan Cemetery was raised at the latest meeting of the Athlone-Moate Municipal District, as one local councillor questioned the enforcement of burial site regulations in the graveyard.

Speaking at the meeting Cllr Paul Hogan made reference to one particular grave, which he described as "grossly" over-stepping the regulations.

“The bye-laws that are there deal with a wide range of burial regulations. In it, it states the max height of a headstone is 1.2m, with the exception of high crosses which can be 1.8m max height.

"For the example I've shared with my fellow councillors, the other headstones surrounding are now in a shadow. I ask whether a fine had ever been enforced? These regulations have been in place for 13 years. What can the local authority do for headstones which are already in place? Can something be enforced with the headstone makers?"

Other councillors shared their support for the motion, with some noting that it was unfair on the families of the surrounding graves.

"Why are we not focusing on enforcing our bye-laws? It's completely unfair on those with adjoining graves," said Cllr Frankie Keena.

Cllr Aengus O'Rourke said some people might find these headstones "somewhat offensive" and asked what can be done to remove the monuments retrospectively.

"It seems to be the battle of the headstones, who can have the larger headstone," added Cllr John Dolan. "If the bye-laws are not being enforced we are wasting our time.

"Someone had signed off on these graves, and they need to be contacted and given a few weeks to make changes, or we will have to intervene ourselves."

In response to the motion, council management gave a written response which read: "The Byelaws (enacted in April 2013) provide for regulation of cemeteries in Co. Westmeath. Regulation on headstone/grave design and the erection of structures is detailed therein.

"The existing byelaws are extensive and considered sufficiently robust and fit for purpose for the maintenance and management of across the county."

“The bye-laws are robust," said Council Director of Services Jackie Finney, noting that she is "not aware of any legal action taken" in regard to any particularly obtrusive headstones.

She concluded: "It's a rare occasion when people completely flout the rules, and from what I've heard, we often have people coming in to engage with engineers to ensure they stay within the guidelines.”