Road Town, Tortola - The Ministry of Health and Social Development is appealing for residents of the Territory to cooperate with the managers of all public burial grounds, and comply with the Cemeteries Act (Cap 177) and the Burial Grounds Regulations, 1978.

Deputy Secretary Mrs. Carolyn Stoutt-Igwe said a recent meeting with Burial Ground Managers revealed a growing problem whereby some persons have not been cooperating with the managers. She also noted that breaches of the current legislation continue to be observed.

“Persons who contravene any of the provisions of the Burial Grounds Regulations are guilty of an offence and liable on summary conviction to a fine of over a thousand dollars,” she said.

The Deputy Secretary reminded residents that Burial Ground Managers are responsible for maintaining the general orderliness and appearance of the Territory’s public burial grounds, in accordance with the Burial Grounds Regulations 1978.

Therefore, she noted, managers have the authority to determine where deceased persons should be buried, to remove faded flowers from grave sites, and to ensure that the public complies with the provision of the relevant legislation. The official appealed for offenders to refrain from tombing graves or constructing vaults in public or private burial grounds without prior written permission from the Ministry.

The Deputy Secretary said “Persons who are granted permission to construct vaults are reminded of the need to remove construction materials upon completion of the burial proceedings. We are appealing for the public’s full cooperation with all Burial Ground Managers.”

The Ministry of Health and Social Development is also in the process of updating its register of private burial grounds. Residents who own such facilities are asked to contact the Ministry to verify that their respective private burial grounds are licenced, in accordance with Section 4 of the Cemeteries Act.

“No permission will be granted for burials in private sites that have not been licenced by the Ministry,” she said.

Additionally, the Ministry is now finalising a Discussion Paper to seek public input on recommendations for amending both the Cemeteries Act and the Burial Grounds Regulations. Public consultations are expected to commence within the coming month.

Persons who require further information about cemeteries and burial procedures can contact the Ministry on telephone number 468-3701 extensions 3111 or 3006. The Ministry of Health and Social Development aspires to provide leadership that promotes health, social wellbeing, and a safe environment as positive resources for living and sustainable development of the Territory.