ST. JOHN’S, Antigua, Aug 20, CMC – The Antigua and Barbuda government, which earlier this month described as “disrespectful and deeply troubling” the break-in and theft at the newly dedicated Tranquility Park Cemetery, says burials there will begin on September 1, but under strict conditions.
Health Minister, Sir Molwyn Joseph, told reporters that the ministry had conducted several ‘dry runs’ to ensure that the new system for burials is well understood by those who will be involved in the burial exercise.
But he said that new regulations governing behaviour and the use of alcohol or smoking of illegal substances have been introduced.
“We are able to make the announcement, having done several dry runs to be sure that the whole management of internment is professional, and it is characterized by our tradition that we should honour the dead, be reverent. There are certain things that will change; and that is the internment will have certain standards and restrictions.
“Loud, disruptive, or offensive behaviour will not be tolerated. Alcohol, illegal substances, and smoking are strictly prohibited within the cemetery grounds, and the cemetery reserves the right to remove any person engaging in inappropriate conduct. In terms of visiting hours, the cemetery is open to the public from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm (local time) daily,” he said.
Sir Molwyn said that he has observed over the years that people attending funerals have been cavorting, playing loud music, drinking and behaving in an irreverent manner and that the cemetery’s security officers will be on hand ‘to escort these individuals’ from the cemetery if necessary.
The Health Minister said that there will be a ban on the use of plastic floral arrangements within the new cemetery in keeping with the government’s ban on plastics, noting that these arrangements currently litter the current public cemetery in St. John’s.
With regard to vending, that too will be regulated. Only authorised persons will be allowed to vend within the compound of the cemetery and none will be allowed on the outside.
Sir Molwyn acknowledged that some of the changes being contemplated will require the backing of legislation.
He said one such change would be that burials will go as deep as nine feet to accommodate a second burial in each grave.
Earlier this month, following the robbery, the Ministry of Health said it was deeply disappointed as well as “disheartened that such an act has occurred at a site intended to provide a peaceful, dignified final resting place for loved ones.
“That individuals would deliberately violate the sanctity of this space by stealing from it and causing such extensive destruction is both disrespectful and deeply troubling.”
According to the statement, the perpetrators ripped out the air conditioning unit, broke the entrance, removed the water cooler, and inflicted severe damage to the telecommunication infrastructure, electrical wiring, and other essential systems.
CMC/ah/ir/2025