Work can resume in graveyards on the erection and updating of gravestones from today.

Such works had not been allowed in graveyards across county Mayo, and another of other counties,  since the Level 5 Covid Restrictions were introduced at the start of this year, as the local authority did not deem such works as “essential”.

The cessation had caused distress and upset to many grieving families, many who had been bereaved during the pandemic and were already coping with the very restrictive controls on funeral services and gatherings.

Mayo Fianna Fail deputy Dara Calleary said he had sought clarification on the council’s stance on the cessation of any graveyard works from government, and he says the government’s guidelines are clear, such works are deemed “essential”.

In response, Acting CE of Mayo County Council Peter Duggan has this morning informed councillors in writing that these works can resume as of today.

Deputy Calleary has been speaking to Midwest News.