Minister McKenzie Urges Compliance With Funeral Orders

Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Hon. Desmond McKenzie, is urging members of the public to comply with the Government orders for funerals.

Speaking at a virtual press conference at the Office of the Prime Minister on Tuesday (May 26), Minister McKenzie said that the 15-person limit on funeral attendance remains in effect pending a review.

“There are persons who are operating outside of what is placed in the order, and we advise persons to please cooperate. Whatever actions that are taken that do not conform to the order will jeopardise any considerations that will be given when the order is to be reviewed,” he pointed out.

Funeral gatherings were restricted to no more than 20 people in March and the number was later reduced to no more than 10 persons as the Government tightened measures to control the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Minister McKenzie said the decision to increase the number of persons allowed to attend funerals to 15 was taken following discussions with funeral home operators and undertakers, as well as members of the clergy.

“They recommend 10 mourners and five persons, including the Minister of religion and those who would facilitate the burial,” he noted.