2015 issue 3

The magazine for Funeral Directors in Ireland

2015 Vol.15 No.3

a cherished memory www.treasuredkeepsakes.ie

The magazine for Funeral Directors in Ireland

William is first Irish President of NAFD..................54

Remembering The Lusitania disaster...................... 10

Contents

Annual FSNI poetry competition............................24

Editorial and Advertising contacts: Graham Brown | Ruth McQuillan Vikki Crangle | Paula Hanna Tel: (028) 3835 5060 (048) from ROI Funeral Times is owned and published by: InHouse Publications, 1 Annagh Drive, Craigavon, Co. Armagh BT63 5WF email: sales@funeraltimes.com

Obituary - Joe Gormley............................................ 5 Irish at the NFE........................................................ 6 Cobh remembers The Lusitania............................ 10 IAFD News.............................................................. 12 Ignorant, insensitive or idiotic?............................. 18 FSNI Poetry competition.......................................24 BIE News.................................................................32 SAIF News............................................................... 41 Last lap for motorcycle legend...............................43 Glasnevin announces new Cemetery at Dardistown..........................................................44 Disaster management by Matthew Hall............... 47 NAFD News............................................................. 52 The hardest thing by Mary Elizabeth Dillon.......66 Dr Bill Webster........................................................68 PEAI News................................................................71 Woodvale scoop Golden Charter Award............... 75 Open Day at Wilcox................................................ 78 Joyceans in Full Bloom at Glasnevin....................82 Classifieds................................................................83

Disclaimer: Readers are urged to support the magazine’s advertisers, but the publishers cannot be held responsible for any claims made or implied in the advertisements. The publishers reserve the right to refuse advertising. Opinions expressed in this magazine by contributing writers and advertisers are not necessarily those of the publishers. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information contributed for inclusion in this magazine but no legal responsibility will be accepted by the publishers for loss arising from the use of published articles. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior consent. Articles and photographs for inclusion are welcomed but the publishers cannot accept responsibility for their loss or damage however caused.

FuneralTimes | 3

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Obituary Joseph A. (Joe) Gormley Born – August 3, 1936 Died - Morning of May 17, 2015 at Antrim Area Hospital

J

oe Gormley was the third child of Brian and Rosella (McKenna), Desertmartin, County Derry. Joe enjoyed a healthy early life around Desertmartin, which included helping his father with the work of a Publican, Undertaker, and tending their farmland.

Early on Joe displayed considerable skill and passion for GAA football with his local St. Martin’s Desertmartin GAC, going on to successfully help them win their only Derry Senior Football Club Championship, at the tender age of 17.

Joe schooled in Saint Columbs, Derry, later returning home to work, and marry Bridie Mullan. In 1960, Joe and Bridie started their married life in Maghera. Joe continued the work of his mother (Ella McKenna), developing and running the Railway Bar, later adding the Hideout Lounge, something Joe was particularly proud of. Joe continued the family tradition by becoming the fourth generation of the family’s Gormley Funeral Undertaking Business. Service to the community would remain his main life focus. Caring has the gift of making the ordinary special.

Through the sixties, Joe and Bridie had four boys: Bernard, Donal, Michael and Enda.

Joe combined his dual passion of community and business by contributing generously with his time to, amongst other things, the local Round Table Association, Swatragh CoOp Committee, Maghera business development groups, and also served as a member of the Board of Governors for Saint Patrick’s College, Maghera.

Positivity was the order of Joe’s day and so it remained until the end.

To describe Joe in a few words is difficult, for he was told much, knew plenty, and shared only that which was safe and true. As a Funeral Director, Joe was well aware not to take life too seriously because he was acutely aware that he would never get out of it alive.

Perhaps the biggest compliment to Joe would be his understanding of Life.

Joe fully grasped from a very early age that Legacy was not what’s left tomorrow when you are gone - it’s what you give, create, and contribute today, while you are here, that then lives on.

Joe Gormley (1936 – 2015)

NATIONAL FUNERAL The Irish were out in numbers again at this years NFE at Stoneleigh on June 12-14. Funeral Times were there too, and we were delighted to meet up with a great number of Irish funeral directors and exhibitors.

Highlights included the Digital Autopsy models who certainly caused people to stop and stare, and this years theme was Medieval, complete with falconry! It will only be a couple of months until we meet to do it all again at the Funeral Times Trade Show in Citywest in September.

A medieval theme ran throughout this years NFE show

Conor MacCarrick (Funeral Times) with Dr Bill Webster (Grief Journey)

Andrew Shepherd (Shepherd's Mortuary Supplies) and Eamon Cassidy

One of the many beautifully crafted coffins on display Forever Flowers

Gerard Duffy (centre) of Duffy Coachbodies, with son Geoffrey 6 | FuneralTimes

Tom Healy (Healy Bros), Alan Fleming (Fleming & Cuthbert) and Glen Baxter (North Down Memorials)

EXHIBITION 2015

Paul and Leila Wilcox of Wilcox Limousines

Fearghas Quinn from Fearghas Quinn Hearse and Limousines with his wife Paula

Digital Autopsy

Linda Jones (Administration Manager) with Paul Allcock (Vice President) of SAIF

John McArdle, Jim Conlon, Dara Gillespie, Colin Maguire and Dermot Sharpe from Finlay's of Ardee

Ruth McQuillan and Paula Hanna (Funeral Times) with William Millar, NAFD President

The curve - a new concept in coffin design, where the option is available to 'do it yourself '

Jerry O'Mahoney, Enniskeen, Co Cork with Donal Forde (Fordes Funeral Homes Ltd.)

Jim Irwin and Richard Neill (Malcomson's FD) with Paula Hanna (Funeral Times) FuneralTimes | 7

Irish Funeral Directors

Chris and Ryan from S. Sheals and Son with Geert (who had a long drive home that night!)

Chemsol Ltd.

Niall and Nicola Wray, Wrays Funeral Directors, Belfast

Not all vehicles on display were the latest models!

8 | FuneralTimes

Gerard Campbell (GM Canopies) with Jackie Carron, (Celtic Coffins) Hans Wierenga and David Gleeson

Joe Daly and Mark Curtis (Curtis Coffins)

There were many beautiful urns on display at the National Exhibition

Lee Smith, Steven Mears and Steve Ryan of Mears Repatriation

at the National Exhibition

Martin McGowan Funeral Supplies, exhibiting at the National Funeral Exhibition

Funeral Planning Services enjoying the show

Redwood Collections offer a debt collection service for Funeral Directors

Geert Triest with Eamon Cassidy of Funeral Supplies, Donegal Medieval was the theme

Coleman Milne had a collection of cars on display outside the exhibition hall

Many stands displayed 'green' funeral products

Marshall Lindsay with Andrew and Noleen McMullan and Darwin Stevenson

Ruth McQuillan (Funeral Times) with Newry, County Down Funeral Director, Paul McEvoy FuneralTimes | 9

Cobh remembers the Lusitania disaster – 100 years later The people of Cobh in Co. Cork turned out in their hundreds on Sunday May 10th, 2015 to reenact what was to be the 100th anniversary of the funerals of the victims of the Lusitania disaster.

T

he weather matched the mood of the occasion, dull, overcast and gloomy, the town had gone back in history and those of us who were privileged to be there were actually watching history – in the past and in the making.

At exactly 3pm the cortege departed the Square which was the exact time, 100 years previously, that the real funerals took place. First came Cobh funeral director Henry Black, dressed impeccably with his top hat and funeral cane, leading the procession every step of the way on its one and a half mile journey to Old Church Cemetery outside the town.

Henry was followed by four mounted garda siochana and a brass band playing solemn marching music, who in turn were followed by around 20 senior gentlemen in full, old style military uniform.

Further back came the first of two horse drawn

10 | FuneralTimes

hearses complete with two solid oak coffins which really brought home to everyone the awfulness and reality of death. The hearses were followed by hundreds of people from Cobh and elsewhere, all dressed in clothes modelled on the early 1900’s, and lastly a few Model T Fords dating back to the same era.

Eventually, the entire funeral procession arrived at Old Court Cemetery where a remembrance ceremony took place and where Cobh showed the world that the victims of the Lusitania disaster would never be forgotten by the town. It was a magical experience and great credit must be given to the organisers and to Henry Black Funeral Directors of Cobh for arranging such an event, carried out with such passion, respect and great reverence to have offered a significant consolation to the families of the deceased.

May they rest in peace.

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IAFD News

Dear Members, Summer is here and I hope you are both well and busy.

Members Update Meetings: Our last Regional/Open meeting was held at the Strand Hotel, Limerick. It was an evening meeting and was well attended. Guest speakers included Philip O’Sullivan Solicitor to the IAFD, Console and Eulogica Funeral Software providers.

Our next Regional meeting will be in Dundalk at The Crowne Plaza Hotel on 17th September and the AGM will be in the Oriel Hotel Ballincollig, Cork on 21st November 2015.

Education Weekend: The Education Committee are delighted to announce that Mr Todd Van Beck will present a weekend seminar which will be held in the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Santry, Co Dublin on Saturday 25th July, 2015.

Registration is at 9.30am and will conclude at 5.00pm. Fee for the course is â‚Ź75. Places are limited to 50. A breakfast meeting with Todd will take place on Sunday 26th July 2015.

Please contact Joanne Cooney to reserve your place at the seminar. Email: joanne@cooneysfuneralhome.com / Mobile: 087 8180676 Website: Colm Kieran is doing great work on the website particularly in relation to the members section and also Associate members. In the Associate members section they are now listed as Supplier/Associate members and their particular products are easily identifiable from the drop down list. While much work is going on in the background to make the website more user friendly for members and others who may view the site, access to the members site has been suspended in the interim to update the system.

12 | FuneralTimes

IAFD News I would like to welcome the following to membership of the IAFD. Full member: P. J. Murphy, Ennis, Co. Clare.

Associate Member: Curtis Coffins, Ardee, Co Louth.

Funeral Times Trade Show: The Funeral Times Trade Show will take place again this year at the Citywest Hotel & Conference Centre, Saggart, Co Dublin on 29th and 30th September.

The IAFD will have a stand there and please feel free to call with us.

Finally I would like to wish you all a pleasant summer.

President

Certificate in Funeral Practice

Congratulations to Grant Robinson and Pat Keller on successfully completing the certificate in funeral practice course

FuneralTimes | 13

IAFD News Funerals – the next 10 years - Delivered by Todd W. Van Beck -

T

odd W. Van Beck is one of the best known and most well regarded educators, writers and speakers in the funeral profession.

His book, “Winning Ways,” and the articles he frequently contributes to trade magazines, illustrate Van Beck’s seemingly limitless ability to come up with simple yet innovative ways to improve a funeral home and his knack for explaining good business practices in a down-to-earth, step-by-step way.

Todd Van Beck brings wit and wisdom to every topic imaginable, captivating audiences with both creative thinking and practical ideas. The seminar will include • A fun, fast-paced presentation • Applications and practices specific to the funeral and cemetery profession • Visuals and multi-media enhancement • Manuals and handouts to enhance retention • Videos and slides for participants to use back at home The IAFD are delighted to have Todd return to Ireland. Following his very successful seminar in Wexford, Todd is returning to help enhance IAFD Members' businesses.

The seminar: Funerals - the next 10 Years, will cover a range of topics from funeral accounts, collections, social media impact on the funeral sector, developing your funeral business and community outreach programmes to name a few…

14 | FuneralTimes

REGISTRATION Saturday 25th July 2015 Registration 9.30am Seminar commences: 10.00am Lunch: 12.30pm-1.30pm Seminar concludes: 4.30pm

Sunday 26th July 2015

Breakfast with Todd (Optional) An opportunity to meet with Todd to have a one to one discussion. (€16.00 charge if you are not staying in the Hotel)

Venue Location:

Crowne Plaza Hotel, Northwood Park, Santry, Dublin 9 Registration Fee: €75.00 (non – refundable)

PLACES ARE LIMITED To guarantee your place email:

joanne@cooneysfuneralhome.com for an application form before Friday 10th July.

Michael Crowley (President) Crowley Funeral Directors Bothar Saclay, Ballincollig, Co. Cork.

Phone: 021 4874777 Email: info@crowleyfuneraldirectors.ie Henry Black (Immediate Past President) Henry Black Funeral Directors Springbank, Rushbrooke, Cobh Phone: 021 4811630 Mobile: 087 2544106 Gerard Clarke (First Vice President) Gerard Clarke & Sons Funeral Home Main Street, Balisodare, Sligo Ph: 071 9130700 Mobile: 087 2565310 Email: gerardclarkeandsons@eircom.net John Foley (Hon. Treasurer and Second Vice President) Jennings Funeral Directors 81 Amien Street Dublin 1 Ph: 01 8555511 Mary Cunniffe (Hon. Secretary) Massey Bros Funeral Home Templeogue Village, Dublin 6W Mobile: 085 8010742, Ph: 014 907601 Email: mary.cunniffe@hotmail.com Joanne Cooney (Education Committee - Chair) 4 Robert Street, New Ross, Co. Wexford.

Ph: 051 421416 Mobile 087 8180676 Email: joanne@cooneysfuneralhome.com

Colman Finlay (Membership Officer) Tierney Street, Ardee, Co. Louth Ph: 041 6853603 Email: colman.finlay@finlaygrp.com Graham Gleasure (PRO) The Gleasure Funeral Home Matt Talbot Road, Tralee Ph; 066 7123079 fax; 066 7123193 Mobile: 086 2581443 Email: graham@gleasures.ie James Brown Funeral Services Northern Ireland Ltd. 300 Newtownards Road, Belfast BT4 1HF Email: jb@james-brown.info Colm Kieran Kieran Bros. Funeral Directors Kingscourt, Co. Cavan Mobile: 087 6218740 , Ph: 042 9667309 Email: colmkiernan@gmail.com Dermot McCarthy McCarthy’s Funeral Home Gurrane, Banteer, Cork.

Ph: 029 56044 Email: dermot@mccarthy-auctioneer.com Mary O’Shea O’Shea’s Funeral Directors New Street, Killarney Ph: 064 6637123 Email: osheatim@eircom.net

www.iafd.ie FuneralTimes | 15

The 3i’s The ignorant, the insensitive and the idiot

By Kate Hamilton, Mourning Cross What to say to a grieving person For most people, attending a visitation and Funeral is difficult, and whilst each funeral is different, i.e. some are more devastating as a result of the circumstances surrounding the death, whatever the circumstances and age of the person who has died, the family is grieving a loss. Their lives are changed forever as they now prepare to say goodbye and start their journey and path of mourning.

recall thinking to myself about what some of the visitors had said during that time. I remember thinking; “how could you make such an insensitive and hurtful comment.” It is amazing how the brain concentrates on the negative, I know that I heard more positive and uplifting stories that made me proud, but when you are grieving, negative and inappropriate comments can be magnified in our vulnerability and some comments stay with us.

Supporting the family Attending a visitation and subsequent funeral are the most important ways to support a family in the midst of their devastation and pain. It is the opportunity to show your respect and express your sorrow for the family. Families appreciate the effort and feel the support and sympathy that family members, friends and neighbours offer.

Why words matter Our words and actions communicate, express and transfer our emotions and feelings, they convey our message of sympathy at a time when a family is completely exposed and vulnerable in their grief. What we say and do has the ability to comfort, devastate and in some cases traumatize a person when they are at their lowest. I have written this article as a result of studying Coaching at End of Life, it is one of the topics we have discussed which brought back memories of negative comments I remember hearing all those years ago. As a result, I decided to ask the question which I posted on Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter; What is the worst/best thing you have heard someone say to a grieving person at a wake/visitation or funeral?

Lest we forget The visitation and funeral, for most families, will never be forgotten. Saying goodbye and travelling the final journey to your loved one’s final resting place is one of the worst days in your life and a day that will be remembered forever. I can still recall twenty years later the wakes and funerals of many of my loved ones. Unfortunately, I also 18 | FuneralTimes

A selection of the responses received: Worst Comments: “Don’t worry you will soon get over it” “It was for the best.”

“I know how you are feeling.”

“He looked better in his coffin than he ‘s looked for years!"

“You’ll be better after the funeral when you can get back to normal.”

“Don’t worry dear, things will get better with time.”

“I’m sorry, but your Mom didn’t have enough faith to live any longer.”

“His money and house aren’t much good to him now.”

“You’ll have more children.”

“At least you have children.”

“Don’t worry, you’ll not be on your own for too long.”

“God takes only the best, God needed him for a job in heaven.”

“You think this is bad, my situation was so much worse, at least you didn’t have to nurse him, he went quickly.”

“A heart attack is the best way to go, that’s the way I want to go.”

“Pull yourself together, you have to be strong.”

“At least she is out of her suffering.”

“Stop crying.”

“You're young enough to have more children.”

“It was his time to go you will be together again soon.”

“It is all a part of God’s plan. It’s God’s will and you can’t argue with that.”

“It’s happy for them.”

“At least you won’t have the burden of looking after him now.”

“God needed an Angel.”

“Don’t be sad, he gets to be with Jesus on his birthday, how awesome is that?”

“You can still make peanut butter sandwiches at midnight.”

“Sure they lived a long life, what more could you ask for.”

“You’ll meet someone else.”

“You’ll just have to pull yourself together and be strong for your children, at least you have children.”

“I know exactly how you feel, I lost my dog a few months ago.”

“It will take four long hard years before you get over this.”

“Best not to dwell on it, that’s life, we live and we die.”

“God only gives you what you can handle”.

“She looks better than she did the last time I saw her”.

Comments made after the funeral some weeks and months later: “Did I hear your husband died? I can’t remember.”

“I’m sorry I wasn’t at the wake or funeral, it was our anniversary and we were on holiday, I’d die if my husband died”.

“Hi Loretta, everything back to normal now”?

“Oh yeah, your daddy died, didn’t he, sorry to hear that.”

Best Comments: “There are just no words”. Offer a hug where appropriate.

“My deepest sympathy, I am here for you if you want to talk.”

“My condolences to you and your Family.”

“I am here for you if you ever need someone to just listen.”

“I’m so sorry for your loss.”

“There are no words, just know we are all thinking and praying for you”.

“Take YOUR time, there is no time limit on grieving.”

The impact of our words We live in a world where common sense, “isn’t very common”, a society where there are so many different beliefs and perspectives about death and grief as a result of various religious affiliations, cultures and traditions. The fact is our beliefs about death and dying depend on so many factors and how we deal and cope with loss is very personal. It is important to find a way of letting go any comments made at that time.

How to forgive and forget?

I believe that for the most part, people are genuine in their attempt to comfort the grieving person albeit the list above suggests otherwise. I truly believe that most people are embarrassed and at a loss when it comes to comforting families; some of the responses above certainly make the case that some people just “Don’t think”.

I also believe that people who make insensitive, hurtful and unimaginable remarks fall under three categories I define as follows: The ignorant (ig·no·rant - adjective) 1. Lacking in knowledge or training; unlearned: an ignorant man.

2. Lacking knowledge or information as to a particular subject or fact: ignorant of quantum physics.

3. Uuninformed; unaware.

4. Due to or showing lack of knowledge or training: an ignorant statement.

We have to forgive and forget the comments made by people who have never experienced loss, those people who have absolutely no idea what they are talking about. They feel that they have to say something and usually end up putting their foot in their mouth.

Forgive them they know not what they do and say.

20 | FuneralTimes

The insensitive (in.sen.si.tive - adjective) 1 Deficient in human sensibility, acuteness of feeling, or consideration; unfeeling; an insensitive person.

2 Not physically sensitive: insensitive skin.

I am sure you have met people who are completely devoid of sensitivity, they come out with things that are absolutely inappropriate and look at you as if to say, “what did I say wrong?” It seems that they simply have no capacity to empathize.

Forgive them, they know not what they do.

The idiot (id.i.ot) 1 Informal. An utterly foolish or senseless person: If you think you can wear that outfit to a job interview and get hired, you’re an idiot!

2 Psychology. (No longer in technical use; considered offensive) a person of the lowest order in a former and discarded classification of mental retardation, having a mental age of less than three years old and an intelligence quotient under 25 You probably also recognize the idiot, that person who you know is an idiot from the first time they open their mouth.

Forgive them, they know not what they do.

Coping with the loss of a significant person in your life is hard enough without taking on the burden of carrying anger and feeling pain associated with comments made from people who are simply; ignorant, insensitive or idiots. If you forgive those comments, you will serve yourself well in the knowledge that “they know not what they do.”

I wish our Funeral Directors had explained this to us when we were making arrangements, if they had I would probably have attributed the negative remarks to the above categories of people and their comments would have gone in one ear and out the other.

FuneralTimes | 21

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Local poets gleaming at chance to win £800 in poetry competition A recital to celebrate poetry month and launch the fourth annual Funeral Services Northern Ireland National Poetry competition has been attended by poets from across Northern Ireland. Local poets will be gleaming at the chance to win £800 when the winners are announced at a reception in Parliament Buildings Stormont in October.

The theme of this year’s competition is ‘light’, as declared by the nationwide organisers of the National Poetry Day initiative and this year’s prize fund will offer three local poets a chance to win - £450 for first prize, £250 for second and £100 for third.

Speaking at the launch, Chair of the Judges, award winning published poet, Paul Maddern, of The Seamus Heaney Centre for Poetry at Queen’s University Belfast, said: “This is a tremendous initiative which gives poets across Northern Ireland the opportunity to celebrate their work and engage with other poets in a very unique way. I was involved in the inaugural competition and I’m proud to see how the competition has grown. At my own father’s funeral we recited poetry and hymns and the written word offers a sense of comfort and healing which we are sure we will see from the entrants of this year’s competition.”

Paul will be joined on the judging panel by Damian Smyth of Arts Council NI, Colin Dardis of Poetry NI, the current winner of the competition, Mark Cooper from Belfast, last year’s winner, Ross Thompson from Bangor and Beverley Brown of Funeral Services Northern Ireland.

Beverley Brown, General Manager, Funeral Services Northern Ireland said: “We are in the memory business and we are committed to this competition as it offers an outlet for people to express feelings, thoughts and emotions through poetry which they may otherwise have difficulty in expressing.

“To date this competition has provided a voice to more than 200 local poets and this 24 | FuneralTimes

Portadown couple Ellison and Sharon Sloan, of Joseph Poots and Son, recited work at the launch of the fourth annual national poetry competition with Funeral Services Northern Ireland during poetry month. L/R Judges Mark Cooper, Beverley Brown of Funeral Services Northern Ireland, Paul Maddern of Queen’s University Belfast and Ross Thompson join Ellison and Sharon Sloan. www.fsninationalpoetrycomp.co.uk year we are looking forward to receiving entries from across Northern Ireland from people who want to celebrate the lives of people they care about.”

Entrants will be invited to a recital in Parliament Buildings Stormont on National Poetry Day (Thursday 8th October) hosted

by BBC Arts Show presenter Marie-Louise Muir and deadline for entry is midnight on 13th September.

To enter the competition, log onto www. fsni-nationalpoetry.comp and for further information about the competition, email Joanne Barrie at Funeral Services Northern Ireland, joanne.barrie@fsni.com.

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FT website now the definitive source for notices The award winning website www.funeraltimes.com is now listing an impressive 80% of all death notices in Northern Ireland, making it the definitive destination for funeral details. Launched in Spring ’14 the internet portal carries death and condolence notices online and has enjoyed growing popularity over the past year.

Almost all Funeral Directors are now uploading to the portal - either directly by round-the-clock input or by email.

Many are availing of the free facility to simultaneously upload to their own website thus avoiding double entry effort. A unique feature of the site, designed especially for FDs, is the ability to create and send a newspaper notice which makes the website a one-stop publishing service.

Visitor numbers have grown substantially and nearly two hundred thousand have logged on at home and abroad since launch. Along with funeral information visitors can find directional maps to the service and committal locations. They can also post condolence notices and messages of sympathy.

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BIE News

The BIE Northern Ireland Division recently hosted a Joint Meeting and Education Day at O'Neill's Funeral Home, Belfast. Members from the Irish Division travelled from as far as Cork. Attendance was excellent and the day proved to be very educational and enjoyable for all.

Members and visitors were treated to coffee and scones on arrival and the morning agenda commenced with Edel Livingstone (N.I. Organ Donation Team Member) who spoke on the role of the Organ Donation Team.

This was followed by a power-point presentation by Ben Whitworth (Dodge Company Representative) on the embalming management of a more complex case after organ/tissue/bone donation.

The afternoon programme included Colin Clarke (Lead Infection Prevention and Control Nurse - Southern Area Trust) speaking on the management of the infectious case after death, and Mr Billy Doggart (BIE Fellow Member) speaking on Identification and Embalming Co32 | FuneralTimes

Ordination and Intervention of Aircrash Victims in the 1950's.

Ben Whitworth delivered a further presentation on the use of Co-Injections and their value in the embalming process.

A delicious lunch was provided for all attendees with time allocated to browse the Trade Stands provided be Shepherd's Mortuary Supplies, CPL Funeral Supplies and McCalls Clothing of Lisburn, Co. Antrim.

A BIE Meeting was held following the close of the Education Programme. During this meeting Stephen Connolly (MBIE) was presented with the Robert Connolly Memorial Cup on receiving the highest practical examination result in the N.Ireland Division for 2014.

Grateful thanks is extended to members, speakers and those providing trade stands for their contribution and support in ensuring the success of this day.

Our thanks and appreciation also to the O'Neill family for the provision of their Funeral Home to host this meeting.

List of BIE Officers and appointed representatives for 2015/2016 National President: Graeme Easton Scottish Division Imm. Past President: Scott Grigsby R.A. Adams Ltd 117 High Street, Rayleigh, Essex SS6 7QA Mobile: 01268 743102 National PRO & National General Secretary: Mrs Karen Caney FBIE White Meadow Cottage, Brailsford, Derby DE6 3DA Tel: 01332 349035(BIE) Mobile: 07786 432014 karencaney@btopenworld.com National Treasurer: Michael Liddle MBIE 10 Yew Tree Close, Silsoe MK45 4EQ Business Tel: 01582 490005 Home Tel: 01525 860117 michael@silsloe.wanadoo.co.uk Editor: Gwen Schofield MBIE 9 Seymour Walk, Meltham, Holmfirth HD9 4BP Home Tel: 01484 851994 Mobile: 07778 279100 gwen.schofield@ntlworld.com Master Fellow: Ken Morgan FBIE “Evergreens”, 36 Coley Road, Little Haywood, Stafford ST18 0UW Home Tel: 01889 881223 Business Tel: 01902 878425 Mobile: 07970 831760 k.m.morgan@virgin.net Student Liaison Officer: Timothy Cain MBIE Hillcrest, 38 Main Street, Ashby de la Launde LN4 3JG Home Tel: 01526 321396 jackie@lymn.co.uk

Irish Division Chairperson and 1st National Council Representative: Mr John Hawe MBIE 12 Meadow Vale, Smith’s Road, Charleville, Co. Cork Home Tel: 00353 6389280 Mobile: 087 6390087 jmhawe@eircom.net

Northern Ireland Division Chairman Michael Og McKiernan MBIE 51 Agivey Road, Kilrea, Co. Londonderry BT51 5UU Mobile: 07515 746541 Michael-ogmckiernan@hotmail.co.uk

2nd National Council Representative and Past Chairperson: Mr Aidan Walsh MBIE Cappoquin, Co. Waterford Mobile: 00353 87 2847831

Vice Chairman Laurence O'Neill 98 Stewartstown Road Belfast BT11 9JP Tele: 028 90 620099 Email: oneill8210@hotmail.com

National Council Rep & Secretary: Ms Barbara Fowley MBIE Killakee, Rathfarnham Dublin 16 Mobile: 086 191 1022

Secretary Margaret Davis MBIE 4 Back Road, Cargycreevy, Lisburn BT27 6TL Mobile: 07841 100249 Margaretdavis4@me.com

Assistant Secretary: Susan Moran MBIE Alexandra Walk, Abbeylands, Clane, Ireland Mobile: 086 0619500

Treasurer Andrew McMullan MBIE 22 High Street, Ballymoney, Co. Antrim BT53 6AQ Andrew@mcmullanfuneral.com

National Education Representative: Glyn Tallon Mortuary Specialist 14 Academy Street Navan Co Meath Tel:046 9029134 Mobile: 086 826 8876

1st National Council Representative Ellison Sloan MBIE Telephone: 02838 336175 poots@fsni.info

Treasurer: Mrs A O’Reilly MBIE Church Street, Newmarket, Co. Cork Telephone: 029 60142 annaoreilly4@hotmail.com Vice Chairman: Mr Ger O’Sullivan MBIE Mobile: 086 021 5075

2nd National Council Representative Marshall Lindsay MBIE 4 Beechgrove, Kilrea, Coleraine, Co. Londonderry BT51 5RW Telephone: 028 29 540945 marshalllindsay4@gmail.com 1st National Educational Committee Representative Pat Harley MBIE 67 Creggan Road, Londonderry BT48 9DA Mobile: 077128 99137 Phschoolofembalming@hotmail.com

FuneralTimes | 33

BIE News

Crumlin Road Gaol Tour N

. Ireland BIE Members were treated recently to an evening at Crumlin Road Gaol, Belfast by the NAFD N. Ireland Membership.

The evening included a very interesting tour of the Gaol and an excellent presentation

by Peter Ingram (Deputy State Pathologist). Following this, Members travelled into the city centre for a meal in Zakura Restaurant.

The occasion also marked a farewell to Mr Alan Slater (NAFD Chief Executive) who is retiring shortly. Paul Cuthell (NAFD National President) was also present for the evening. Our thanks to the NAFD for this very kind invite. A great evening was had by all!!

34 | FuneralTimes

BIE News

Reminder Dates For Your Diary Stephen Connolly - BIE Member and Lawrence O'Neill - BIE Vice Chairman.

Stephen is receiving the Robert Connolly Memorial Cup on achieving the highest Practical Examination Mark in the N.Ireland Division

Next Meeting Date ~ Tuesday 29th September 2015, 6pm (Citywest Hotel, Dublin) ~ Coinciding with The Funeral Times Trade Show AGM and 1st Quarterly Meeting ~ Wednesday 13th January 2016 ~7.30pm at James Brown & Sons, Newtownards Road, Belfast FuneralTimes | 35

QUALITY SPEAKS FOR ITSELF. Total Fleet Solutions from Coleman Milne

For further information or to arrange a demonstration of any of the Coleman Milne range at your premises, please contact your Area Sales Manager.

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The Norwood steals the show A

fter much anticipation in the industry, the new Coleman Milne Norwood Classic Hearse was officially unveiled at the 2015 NFE and received a remarkable response that surpassed the expectations of the Lancashire based coach builder.

This is the first range in Coleman Milne history to have been engineered completely using CAD/CAM methods which has meant the manufacturing process could commence before they had hands on the base vehicle.

The show itself was a resounding success with order commitments exceeding £1m for a variety of new and used ceremonial and removal vehicles.

Managing Director Geoff Hudson commented, “We are incredibly proud of this superb new range of vehicles and the team that have developed it. We’re expecting great things in 2016; Coleman Milne is setting a new

standard in the manufacture of ceremonial vehicles” The limousine to match the Norwood Classic named the Rosedale is now in preproduction along with the sleek Norwood hearse. The full range is available to pre order now for delivery in 2016.

Coleman Milne has a dedicated website to give admirers of the new range the opportunity to register their interest.

Visit discover.coleman-milne.co.uk

Vintage Hearse Hire

Fully restored 1939 Austin 20 vintage hearse Can be used for all occasions: • Funerals • Funeral Premises Openings • Trade Exhibitions The vehicle is regularly serviced and is valeted to the highest standards for each occasion, so it will arrive on the day in pristine condition for the occasion. On the day your company name can be displayed in the side glass of the vehicle.

A professional, uniformed chauffeur/bearer will also be provided.

T: 028 3753 1354 (NI) / 048 3753 1354 (ROI) Mobile: (+44) (0)7712 872391 Web: www.vintagehearsehire.net 38 | FuneralTimes

A world of difference Global repatriation at your service • • • • • •

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saif.org.uk

Supporting the Independent Funeral Director for 25 years Promoting and protecting your independent interests

Established in 1989, SAIF is committed to promoting and protecting the traditions, values and care offered by independent funeral directors.

Like you, we are passionate about independence, that is why we were formed 25 years ago and, although the funeral profession has changed over the years, our aims remain the same – to listen to you, to represent you and to assist you.

As a member of SAIF, we can offer you cost savings, training, education, member benefits and practical advice and information that can help and grow your business in today’s competitive funeral profession.

To learn more, visit our website at saif.org.uk or call us on 0845 230 677 and let us protect and help you.

SAIF news ... SAIF news ...

SAIF logo and Public Awareness

I

n 2004 the then Chief Executive Officer of SAIF made the following comments in SAIFInsight ‘Contrary to opinion, we are not doing our job of representing independent funeral directors out of any ‘self-interest’. Our members may be in a minority, but in our eyes and certainly in theirs, it is a very important minority indeed. We will continue to serve the true interest of our members, who we believe strongly have every right to protect their businesses and market share if they wish to do so. We believe passionately in what we are doing’. How times have changed! Our members

are no longer in a minority with over 820 full members and new applications being received weekly. SAIF is now a strong, vibrant trade association committed to providing the best support to those members.

Part of that support is to promote the SAIF logo and to raise public awareness of what it stands for.

Members will be receiving updated information on the re-launch of SAIF Community Awards as well as marketing suggestions, plus other initiatives to help with their business.

Do you advertise your membership of SAIF?

W

e wish to remind members to ensure that you display your SAIF logo as per the SAIF Code of Practice. We now have smaller window stickers that many members are using on their cars in place of the Tax Disc, so please don’t hesitate to contact SAIF if you seek more SAIF logo stickers.

Education Day - Wednesday 4th November With the National Funeral Exhibition over for another year, SAIF are concentrating on the Education Day on Wednesday 4th November.

With Digital Autopsy already confirmed on the agenda and business advertisement, marketing, stress, and Death Certification as subjects being covered, this really is a day you should not miss. More information is available on the SAIF website and SAIFInsight.

We hope to be welcoming members from Ireland this year so please book to attend this highly informative and educational day.

FuneralTimes | 41

Duffy ready to go again G

erard Duffy has been to a lot of trade shows. Duffy Coachbodies Dundalk Ltd. have been regular attenders of shows across these islands and beyond for many years and Gerard knows the importance of meeting customers and letting them see his vehicles up close.

“Brochures and adverts are important, but there is nothing like seeing the vehicle to convince a funeral director of the quality of design and finish”, said Gerard.

Duffy’s were at the NFE in Stoneleigh in June and were delighted at the response to their latest series of three and five door hearses and six door limousines.

Gerard was joined on the stand at the NFE by son Geoffrey and Ned Sweeney and they spent three busy days showing funeral directors around their vehicles. The response was excellent and Gerard was pleased at the level of business completed. “And it will soon be

42 | FuneralTimes

time to do it all again! We are looking forward to seeing our many customers and friends at the Funeral Times Trade Show in Citywest in September. It was great to meet so many in 2013 both on the stand and in the hotel in the evening. It is a bit daunting to be ready to go again just after Stoneleigh, but I am looking forward to it already”, said Gerard.

Geoff ’s sons, Peter and Mike, followed the hearse on motorbikes while other family members joined the lap in cars

Last lap for motorcycle legend G

eoff Duke’s final lap of the Isle of Man TT was completed earlier this year ahead of a private family funeral.

Motorcycling legend Duke passed away on May 1 at the age of 92. His legendary career included seven victories on the Mountain Course and six World Championship titles.

A hearse carrying his coffin left the Grandstand in the afternoon to complete a final tour of the 37.73-mile circuit where he made his name.

Speaking before the funeral, Geoff ’s eldest son Peter said: “Mike and I think dad would have really appreciated a last run around the course. It’s not going to be 10mph cortege, we’ll stick to the speed limits but we’re going to open it up a bit over the Mountain. Dad would definitely have liked that.”

Duke’s TT wins, for the Norton and Gilera teams, helped to secure his place as a household name in the 1950s, becoming the first true superstar of motorcycle racing.

Reflecting the importance of his role in

post-war motorsport, national newspapers including the London Times, Daily Telegraph and The Guardian each carried obituaries in the wake of his death.

Douglas Borough Council lowered flags on buildings in the town to half-mast on the day of the funeral. Duke was awarded the freedom of the borough in 2003.

Geoff Duke takes the flag for one last time FuneralTimes | 43

Glasnevin Trust announ to be built at Dardistown G

lasnevin Trust, Ireland’s largest provider of funeral services, has announced that a new state-of-the-art crematorium will be built at their Dardistown Cemetery site in Cloghran, Co Dublin. Construction of the new crematorium will begin in July 2015 and is due for completion by the summer of 2016.

The site area for the crematorium extends to approximately 613sqm and will cost €5 million to build. The crematorium will be a non-denominational facility which will offer an alternative to traditional burials in Ireland.

It was designed by A&D Wejchert & Partners Architects.

The new crematorium meets the highest standards of emissions control and will be one of the most environmentally friendly crematoria in the country.

The public area of the building will be separated into two congregation spaces, each holding 150 people. In the event of a larger service the two congregation spaces can be merged into one, accommodating up to 300 people.

44 | FuneralTimes

The congregation space will be designed as an open transparent glazed space surrounded by a colonnade of steel columns supporting the deep overhang of the roof.

The space is covered with a zinc clad fan shaped roof rising from the south entrance façade to the height of the chimney at the north end of the building. The crematorium and functional areas are enclosed by a high wall of weathered limestone. The building is set in a grove of trees and high quality exterior lighting and finishes are proposed.

Commenting on the announcement, CEO of the Glasnevin Trust, George McCullough said, “Once open, Dardistown crematorium will operate six days a week, providing a much needed service for the greater north Dublin area, and surrounding counties. The new crematorium will offer a peaceful and tranquil environment for people to visit and pay their respects to their loved ones.

All of the Glasnevin Trust cemeteries are non-denominational in keeping with our mission to bury and cremate people of all

nces new Crematorium n Cemetery

religions and no religion with dignity and respect.�

Glasnevin Trust operates cemeteries in Goldenbridge (opened in 1828), Glasnevin (1832), Palmerstown (1978), Dardistown (1990) and Newlands Cross (2000). The first crematorium in the Republic of Ireland at Glasnevin Crematorium was opened by the Trust in 1982 and subsequently in Newlands Cross (2001).

The Glasnevin Trust is proud of its 187 year history providing funeral services in Ireland. The new Dardistown Crematorium is another development in the illustrious history of the Glasnevin Trust as it prepares for another 187 years.

Dardistown Cemetery is located on the

Swords Road (R132), at the junction of the Old Airport Road just before the entrance to Dublin Airport.

More information on the services provided

by Glasnevin Trust can be found on www. glasnevintrust.ie/funeral-services FuneralTimes | 45

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46 | FuneralTimes

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Matthew Hall, MBIE, has been with Dodge 26 years and is the Sales Manager for Dodge UK. He is an experienced embalmer with over 20,000 cases under his belt. As well as being a qualified embalmer he is also a qualified autopsy technician. In addition to all that, he is a mortuary manager and a team member for a Disaster Team which has taken him to many parts of the world.

Disaster Management Formaldehyde-Free used to great effect

by Matthew Hall MBIE

O

n July 17, 2014 Malaysian Airlines Flight MH17 was reportedly shot down near the village of Hrabove in eastern Ukraine, killing all 298 passengers and crew. The incident in itself was big news and worthy of worldwide coverage but sadly it came on the back of Malaysian Airlines Flight MH370 which went missing on the 8th of March 2014 carrying 239 passengers and crew.

As this is being written it is still classified as missing despite many millions of U.S. dollars being poured into resources to try and locate the plane. This is a story for another occasion when hopefully the plane is found and the victims can be laid to rest. I am not writing to ascertain the “who, what, or why” about the tragedy of flight MH17. That has been, and continues to be, covered by the world’s media on a regular basis.

Rather, I am writing to discuss how remains were treated after the event.

As has been widely reported, the crash site, as we will call it, was in the middle of a battle zone and featured heavy fighting between Pro-Russian separatists and Ukrainian forces, making it a hostile environment, not a safe place for body recovery teams and crash investigators.

This, naturally, did not aid body, property, and wreckage recovery, or assist with identifying the

cause of the crash. It took a number of weeks for the remains to be taken by train to Donetsk in the Ukraine and then flown to the Netherlands for identification and DNA sampling, the DNA process itself being a long, slow process. Most readers will have seen on the television that the remains were accorded a full and dignified reception and were individually treated with the utmost respect. While I was not directly involved in this deployment, team members from throughout the world were tasked with treating and repatriating some of the remains.

Often in these situations, the team has little say over the choice of premises and quite often the team has to “make do and mend.” On this occasion, however, the team was able to secure a mortuary facility located within a funeral home in the local community in which to work. This facility was relativity close to where the remains were being held, as well as being well-placed from a transportation perspective.

Great care had to be taken as to what products were used, due to the numbers and the type of remains being treated, the “Eco-Friendly” approach to embalming adopted within Holland, and the general facilities within the mortuary, which included little in the way of ventilation.

FuneralTimes | 47

The day-to-day work of the funeral home continued throughout the response, so logistics played a big part in the operation. It was decided by the team directors that it would be advisable to use as many formaldehyde-free products as could be used to complete the task-inhand. The only exception to the nonformaldehyde products being used was SynGel HV, this being necessary to coat the remains after treatment. The products used were: • Freedom Cav • Dryene II • Viscerock FF • Neutrolene • SynGel HV • Dis-Spray • Formaldegone (to counteract any fumes of the SynGel HV) Not a large list of products you might think, however for those of you familiar with this type of work, it is rare to be able to carry out any form of arterial injection, and more common to “inject” the remains via a trocar to insure as much saturation of the tissue as possible.

Given the condition of the remains, the need to effect stabilization and to reduce further decomposition, the methods used are very effective.

With regard to the strong odours present, Neutrolene - in spray form - was used to combat these powerful odours. This made for a much more tolerable and less harmful working environment, due to the properties of the Neutrolene.

After the remains were cleaned they were injected hypodermically with a mixture of Freedom Cav and Dis-Spray. Once this procedure was complete, the remains were then liberally covered with SynGel HV and Dryene II, coated in the Viscerock FF, and placed in a bag which was then sealed. The bag was sprayed with Dis-Spray and Neutrolene and placed in another “outer” bag.

Though there are other items available with the same effectiveness within the Neutrolene range, the spray was the most versatile in this situation. Normally when working these types of disasters it is more traditional to use “strong, neat” formaldehyde fluids and Action Powder to cover the remains. As you can imagine in some places the chemical fumes are worse than the tissues being worked on!

48 | FuneralTimes

It has been proven that more than adequate treatment can be achieved by utilizing formaldehyde-free products to make “safe” remains in this type of situation and not just for the short term. The use of formaldehydefree products has been a great success.

Anyone familiar with British public transport systems will know about the saying, “You wait at a bus stop and nothing happens, then two or three buses come at the same time, almost in convoy.” This is sometimes true of disaster scenarios. Not to make light of any of these tragedies, but all too often this is the case, and at present there are other deployments ongoing by the team.

One of the deployments involved a flight from one African nation to another which crashed en-route killing all the passengers and crew on board. This in itself was bad enough and one can only imagine the poor families that had lost loved ones. However, the crash took place in a war torn region which was, and is, controlled by militia, making initial body recovery by the “normal” methods impossible. Within a few days, military forces arrived to control the situation and effect body recovery. As this was a war torn region it was not possible to carry out the necessary processes “in country” as is usual, so the remains were air lifted to a special facility for the usual DNA and ID procedures.

As always, gathering suitable DNA samples for possible matches takes time. While this was taking place, facilities for the team to work in were located and procedures were set in place for the deployed team. After viewing the remains, it was decided that the same protocol as used in Holland, using formaldehydefree products, would once more be ideal and arrangements were made for suitable quantities of these products to be shipped out in readiness. A small team of appropriately skilled members duly arrived and commenced their task. Although many of the remains at this stage were dry fragments there were a large quantity of very “wet” decomposing and odorous tissue. Once more the same procedure as in Holland was used, employing Viscerock FF, Dryene II, Freedom Cav, Dis-Spray and Neutrolene. Once the remains were prepared they were encoffined and ready for repatriation to their relevant countries, no mean feat in itself.

Due credit must be given to the team for making these arrangements and carrying them out in a timely and respectful manner. It was interesting to note that, after the initial period and in the case of already encoffined remains that had yet to be repatriated, once more there were no odour, decomposition, or leakage issues.

The use of these types of products is a sure and positive way forward when dealing with this type of disaster. Now that two disasters have been handled utilizing the formaldehydefree products, it should create a great deal of confidence within funeral service that these products do “what they say on the tin.” These, to my knowledge, are the first two occasions when these types of products have been used in a mass fatality scenario.

There are a number of benefits to using formaldehyde-free products, not least the fact that the operator is safer while working with them, so not only do the team directors need to look to the best solution for the remains and their families, but also to the welfare of the team members deployed in these situations.

The complications that sometime occur getting

products from supply point to point of need are reduced, as most of these formaldehydefree products are easier to ship. The products do not need to be repackaged, as those in the formaldehyde range often do, due to their “hazardous” nature.

It is interesting to note that there is no significant cost increase by converting to these products on an everyday basis within your funeral home/mortuary. These products are as effective as the “full fat versions,” as we call them. Unfortunately, I am sure that there will be other occasions when these types of products will need to be used in this kind of scenario, but we can all have confidence knowing that they are very successful and effective, even in the most challenging of situations.

Shepherds Mortuary & Funeral Supplies, Unit 2A Royal Canal Business Park, Athlone Road, Co. Longford. Ph. 00353 43 3349702/00353 87 2486668

y Mc Dermott r r e G Wreath Manufacturer

Circular Road, Roscommon Tel: 090 6629737 Tel: 090 6625763 Mob: 086 2544126 Mob: 086 8205215 FuneralTimes | 49

A passion for education P

earson Repatriation Service is situated in the heart of rural Yorkshire in the small village of Marsden. Many of you may have seen this beautiful place without knowing it, as it is often used for filming, with the most famous programme being Last of the Summer Wine.

The company is owned and run by Clive and Leanne Pearson who also have a busy family life with their five children, aged 1 to 14.

Clive has a great passion for education in the funeral profession, and is a qualified embalming tutor through the British Institute of Embalmers and a qualified level 5 tutor in the Certificate and Diploma in Funeral Service through the British Institute of Funeral Directors (BIFD).

The Certificate and Diploma in funeral service are both externally marked by Greenwich University who credit the course with 60 Credits. Once the Diploma course has been passed, students can then go on to to take the Certificate of Higher Education

Clive Pearson with President of the BIFD, David Gresty, at the NFE Show in Birmingham in Funeral Management through Birkbeck University.

Clive is currently the 1st Vice President of the BIFD, taking over as National President in October 2015 and is looking forward to attending the Funeral Times Trade Show Ireland in September where the BIFD will be promoting their professional qualifications and membership.

Pearson Repatriation Service (UK) A small independent family run company offering a fast and reliable service 24 hours a day.

As part of our service to you, we can: • Repatriate the deceased from the UK • Provide a coffin and interior • Provide embalming services

Telephone +44 (0)1484 844289 Proprietor Clive J Pearson LMBIFD. DIP.FD. MBIE Manchester Road, Marsden, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, UK, HD7 6EY 50 | FuneralTimes

STRONGER BY ASSOCIATION

Representing the needs of almost 4,000 funeral homes, the National Association of Funeral Directors is the “Voice of the Funeral Profession”, supporting members and assuring the public of high standards for more than 100 years.

The NAFD is influential • Consulted by Government on legislative issues • First call for the media on funeral/ bereavement issues • Established cross party groups in all four UK Parliaments/Assemblies • Universally endorsed professional qualifications The NAFD is inclusive • We are financially independent of any other organisation • We campaign on issues affecting all members equally • Members range from small independent firms to groups and Co-operatives • We are totally democratic with one member, one vote - irrespective of the number of funeral homes

The NAFD is supportive • Best benefits package within the sector, saving up to £5,000 a year on essential business costs • Free helplines for financial, legal and employment law, HR, public relations and repatriation issues • Free £5m professional indemnity insurance per UK funeral home member - unique within the sector • Free insurance against tribunal claims, health and safety and tax prosecutions The NAFD is Trusted • NAFD members are trusted by consumers to deliver our Funeral Promise: • A funeral that is a fitting farewell, at a price they are comfortable with • Treating bereaved families with respect and acting with integrity • Fulfilling any special wishes and requests • The right to independent redress if the need should arise

Your business will be Stronger by Association with the NAFD. Apply to join today and start taking advantage of the benefits of membership. Call Su Lewis on 0121 711 1343 ext. 20.

WWW.NAFD.ORG.UK/ WHY-JOIN-THE-NAFD

NAFD News The NAFD launches the NAFD Funeral Promise The NAFD has launched a Funeral Promise for bereaved families which sets out, in simple terms, the key points within the NAFD Code of Practice.

The Funeral Promise is part of a wider campaign to help ensure that bereaved families understand the high standards of service offered by NAFD member firms and to encourage consumers to look for the NAFD logo and choose a member firm.

The NAFD Funeral Promise also appears on the NAFD website, in a new video which was launched as part of Dying Matters Awareness Week and through the Association’s social media and PR channels.

The NAFD Funeral Promise All NAFD members abide by the NAFD Funeral Promise. In choosing an NAFD member firm you can be assured of: Choice The funeral will be a fitting farewell to your loved one, at a price you are comfortable with.

Respect and Integrity The funeral director will treat you and your loved one with respect, at all times, and will act with integrity.

Attention to detail The funeral director will seek to fulfil any special wishes and requests.

Redress You have a right to independent redress should the need arise.

Nigel Peace of Hemming & Peace in Stratford-upon-Avon who is interviewed in the video said: “The NAFD Funeral Promise

is an important and integral part of being a member of the NAFD for us. It reinforces why we are in the profession. We want to do what we say we will do in the promise we make to families.”

Chief Executive Officer of the National Association of Funeral Directors, Alan Slater MBE, added: “The NAFD Funeral Promise sets out in simple terms, what bereaved families should expect from a funeral firm.

“The NAFD has a reputation for expecting high standards from its members and the NAFD logo can be seen by the public like a kite mark, indicating that a firm is committed to high levels of professionalism and integrity. Prior to joining the Association, funeral directors are required to undergo inspections and provide evidence of its experience and ability to meet these standards and the Association is unafraid to be tough on any member that fails to uphold them. Investigations are carried out and, whilst our preference is always to work with the profession to raise standards, firms can be fined and expelled from membership if necessary.

“We would advise members of the public who have suffered a bereavement to look for the NAFD logo on a firm’s window or search for their nearest NAFD member on our website, www.nafd.org.uk, and trust in our members to care for them and their lost loved one.”

FuneralTimes | 53

NAFD Conference Report 2015

William Millar appointed first NAFD President from Northern Ireland Federation W

illiam Millar, of Ivan Murdoch and Sons in Coleraine, County Londonderry, was installed as the first President of the National Association of Funeral Directors to come from the Northern Ireland Federation last month at the 2015 NAFD Conference which took place in the City of Edinburgh.

The installation ceremony marked the end of a lively three days which was officially opened by the Provost of Falkirk, Pat Reid, followed by a warm Scottish welcome from outgoing President Paul Cuthell of William Cuthell & Sons.

The Association’s Annual General Meeting followed with reports on the work of the various Boards and Committees and the Association’s ongoing efforts in the areas of lobbying, public relations and member benefits.

In his Chief Executive Officer’s report, Alan Slater - who is due to retire this year - used the opportunity to comment upon the changes in the Association during his tenure and the challenges of the future. Alan also paid tribute to the work of two members in particular, Jeremy Field of CPJ Field & Co and Nigel Lymn Rose of AWM Lymn, for their work on legislative issues.

During the Annual General Meeting a resolution was passed granting Honorary Membership of the Association to Alan Slater in recognition of his 16 years’ service to the NAFD. Conference also rose to its feet to give Alan a standing ovation as he concluded his address.

After lunch on Friday the education sessions got underway to a packed room, starting with a presentation on the new Death Certification Act (Scotland) by Dr C. George M. Fernie, the Senior Medical Reviewer for Scotland.

As always, the Friday night was one of the social highlights of Conference with a lively 54 | FuneralTimes

Scottish Ceilidh held in the hotel.

The following morning’s education session was completed with a keynote speech from The Right Honourable Lord Bonomy on infant cremation, highlighting the recommendations made in his report and progress to date.

On Saturday evening the annual NAFD Grand Banquet & Ball took place, hosted

by NAFD President Paul Cuthell and his Lady, Sarah. During the Grand Banquet & Ball a raffle was held for the President’s two chosen charities – Falkirk Autistic Bairns and Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance – for which £3,600 was raised.

On the Sunday morning, during the official closing ceremony, William Millar was installed as President. The new President then installed Paul Cuthell as Immediate Past President, Jeremy Field as First Vice-President and Alison

Crake, of Crake and Mallon, as Second VicePresident. He also officially closed Conference and invited members to attend the 2016 Conference being held on 19 – 22 May at The Europa Hotel, Belfast.

Said Alan Slater MBE: “The NAFD would like to thank all those involved in the organization

of Conference, including the many generous sponsors, together with everyone who came for their contribution to discussions, enthusiastic dancing and, importantly, their willingness to support the ongoing development of the NAFD during the coming year. With your support we really do remain ‘Stronger by Association’.”

NAFD questions whether Localism Act allows councils to compete with funeral firms

T

he NAFD has reacted strongly to news that a local council in Lincolnshire has outlined proposals to offer funeral services.

North East Lincolnshire Council revealed a few weeks ago that it is considering setting up a new organisation to deliver an affordable funeral service. If approved, reports suggest that the organisation would combine the council’s cemeteries and crematorium service with operation of a commercial funeral company.

The council told local media this would deliver better value for residents and provide new income for the council.

Cllr David Watson, the council’s cabinet member for environment, said a financial assessment of the business case is being carried out to explore all options for the service. He told the BBC: ‘It will be important to ensure that the council obtains value for money from any proposal and that it maximises both the financial and non-financial benefits from a more commercial approach.’

In a statement released to the press, NAFD Chief Executive Officer Alan Slater said: “The National Association of Funeral Directors is extremely concerned to hear of the ‘One Stop Shop Funeral Service’ proposed by North East Lincolnshire Council which would see the council set

itself up, effectively, as a funeral director.

“Whilst we have every sympathy for local authorities who need to make up shortfalls in their budget, this should not be achieved by setting themselves up in direct competition with local businesses, many of which are small family-owned firms. All funeral firms in the local area have to pay significant business rates to the council in order to operate, which the council of course will not, giving the council something of an unfair advantage - which we consider to be anti-competitive.

“This also has a financial impact on local people too, as they are funding council activities like this through their council tax, at a time when bereaved families in the borough are already facing an aboveinflation 14% rise in the council’s burial charges, and a £159 penalty charge if a cremation overruns by just five minutes.

“In fact, in less than three years, North East Lincolnshire Council’s cremation costs have risen by 82%, there has also been a 61% increase in burial charges and a 140% increase in the cost of a grave. It begs the question as to whether the council sees bereaved families – and the funeral directors who serve them – as easy targets when it comes to raising revenue.”

The Association is now taking up the matter with the Department for Communities and Local Government.

FuneralTimes | 55

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Looking forward to seeing friends old and new I

reland seems like a big place when you have to service clients in every province. Liza and Edward of Treasured Keepsakes clock up the miles covering the country in visiting funeral directors and supplying the firm’s keepsakes, keepsake pendants and urns.

The business has grown quickly and now has clients across the length and breadth of Ireland who either stock Treasured Keepsakes products or who choose to recommend families to Liza who deals directly with them.

“Ours is a very personal business”, says Liza, “and we try to keep close to our clients in order to make sure our products and the service offered to funeral directors are exactly what they need. While I am constantly in

56 | FuneralTimes

touch with our clients, I am really looking forward to meeting them all in person at the Funeral Times Trade Show at Citywest in September, and hopeful of meeting some new clients. Please come and see us and view our products on the stand. We have worked hard over the last six years to build a reputation for top quality products which families really appreciate and a personal service which funeral directors can rely on.”

For more information contact Liza or Edward or visit our website Tel: 01 825 4579 From NI: 00353 1 825 4579 info@treasuredkeepsakes.ie www.treasuredkeepsakes.ie

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Branded quality books and bags I

mage means a lot to funeral directors. There is only a short time to impress a family and while they all hope the quality of service and the care taken over every detail will be enough to encourage families to entrust them with the next funeral, they also know that the impression created can be influenced by small details.

Funeral directors will always be seen in clean, suitable clothing and will speak with dignity and respect, but many are keen to make sure that every detail is just right and that includes their condolence books, mass card holders and memorial bags.

Dublin company Creative Binding Solutions Ltd. have developed a reputation for providing a superb range of specialist books and bags which help funeral

professionals to brand high quality products which their customers will keep for years.

All products are gold or silver foiled with the funeral directors company name.

Damian Flynn of Creative Binding Solutions is looking forward to renewing old acquaintances and meeting new friends at the Funeral Times Trade Show in Citywest in September. “We’re delighted to announce that we’ll be at the upcoming Funeral Times Trade Show and look forward to seeing you there. We’ll be showcasing some new products including our Burgundy bags, Funeral account folders, Condolence Books (as Gealige), Angels books and bags.

If you need any further information before the show contact me, Damian on (01) 625 1924.

For further information, contact Damian Flynn

Unit 9 Canal Walk, Parkwest, D12.

Phone - Fax: (01) 625 1924 Mobile: (087) 986 1352 Email: info@creativebinder.com Web: www.condolencebooks.ie 60 | FuneralTimes

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Chinese push for ban on funeral strippers

T

he Chinese authorities say they will push to end the rural practice of having strippers perform at funerals.

The culture ministry put out a statement condemning as “uncivilised” the habit of inviting exotic dancers to induce more people to attend the funeral, the official news agency Xinhua reports. The ministry named two recent examples where strippers had been invited to stage “obscene performances” - one in north China’s Hebei Province and another in east China’s Jiangsu. In both cases, both organisers and performers have been punished, it said, adding that it will work with police to stamp out the practice.

Strippers are used to boost funeral attendances because large crowds are seen as a mark of honour for the deceased, and the authorities have previously tried to crack down on the custom - apparently without success. But officials are undeterred. “Having exotic performances of this nature at funerals highlights the trappings of modern life in

62 | FuneralTimes

China, whereby vanity and snobbery prevail over traditions,” Xinhua thunders. Many on social media appear unaware of the custom and are aghast. “I really don’t understand how this can be seen as moral,” one says, although another sees the funny side: “Strippers at funerals? You’re killing me! What kind of trend is this?!”

William Jordan & Son choose quality once again with Coleman Milne

W

illiam Jordan & Son Managing Director Tracy Jordan and Funeral Directors is a Coleman Milne’s Tony Kerr family owned and run business which was established in 1907 and is presently run by the 3rd and 4th generations of the Jordan family in Cupar, Fife.

Managing Director, Tracy Jordan, has recently taken delivery of a new Mercedes E-Class 220 hearse from Coleman Milne. This is the 8th hearse the firm has purchased over the years from Coleman Milne.

As a loyal customer of Coleman Milne since 1990 Tracy said, “We have never been disappointed with the quality of product or service delivered by Coleman Milne. Our new Account Manager Tony has been a great help when ordering our new hearse”.

Vauxhall Hearse and Limousine for A. Duggan & Son A. Duggan & Son Funeral Directors Ltd are delighted with their recent delivery of a quality used Coleman Milne Limousine and hearse at their premises in Douglas on the Isle of Man. A. Duggan & Son Funeral Directors Ltd is a family run business that has offered a dignified and sympathetic service for three generations. The company was originally founded in 1982 by Alfred Duggan. Alfred passed away at the age of 95 but still continued to attend every funeral until his last few weeks.

Alfred’s dedication and professionalism is now continued on by his son Adrian and grandson Edward who maintain the family tradition of a friendly and efficient service.

“Buying cars is always difficult when living on an Island, but the service and warm welcome we received from Eddie Marsden

The quality used Coleman Milne vehicles are pictured here with (L-R) Eddie Marsden of Coleman Milne, Adrian and Edward Duggan and his team at Coleman Milne was exceptional and we look forward to future business with them” - Adrian Duggan.

FuneralTimes | 63

Looking forward to show B

ritish Heart Foundation (BHF) Northern Ireland will be in attendance at The Funeral Times trade Show in Citywest Hotel in Dublin on Gary Wilson, 29-30 September 2015. With 225,000 people Fundraising currently living with cardiovascular disease in Manager Northern Ireland it’s more important than ever to fight back by funding research that saves lives.

This month, 310 people will lose their lives to cardiovascular disease and 90 of them will be younger than 75. This is why the charity needs your help so we can continue to fund lifesaving research because no family should have to suffer the sudden devastation of heart disease.

We welcome you to come by our stand to hear all about our local work and how you can help us in the fight for every heartbeat from our For more information contact Gary Wilson Fundraising Manager, Gary on 028 6863 3113 or email him at wilsong@ Wilson.

WeAdvert look forward to Padraics Civil June 2014_Layout 1 06/06/2014 11:42 Page 1 bhf.org.uk.

Keep up to date with our recent meeting you then! news at bhf.org.uk/northernireland.

CIVIL FUNERAL CEREMONIES Padraic Cawley MICF Civil Funeral Celebrant

Celebrating the life of the deceased, reflecting their personal beliefs, wishes, values and traditions.

Padraic Cawley, MICF Civil Funeral Celebrant

087 267 6050 View my Profile on Linkedin 64 | FuneralTimes

padraic@padraiccawley.ie www.padraiccawley.ie

Funeral Canopies: Manufactured to your requirements Vitabri Canopies - Quality, affordability and reliability

T

he provision of a quality funeral service is a priority for all professional funeral directors, with every eventuality covered.

Unfortunately, the Irish weather is an unknown quantity and can lead to problems for both family and clergy. GM Canopies believe that the provision of a quality shelter for bereaved relatives during inclement weather conditions is an extension of the funeral service.

GM Canopies is the sole distributor in Ireland for ‘Vitabri’ Les Stands, one of Europe’s leading companies manufacturing quality portable aluminium stands, tables and display units.

The English translation for the French word ‘Vitabri’ is ‘quick shelter’. The canopy can be erected in less than one minute, ideal for outside funeral homes, the family wake house and at the graveside.

The canopies are available in fourteen frame sizes and the roof covers are available in nine

colours and three formats: fire retardant PVC, fire retardant polibox and acrylic.

GM Canopies, 183 Tamlaght Road, Omagh, Co Tyrone BT 78 5LL Contact them on tel: 028/048 8224 4025, Fax: 028/048 8224 3338, Mob: (0044) 07778 345074. Visit their website: www.gmcanopies.com or email: gmcanopies@btinternet.com

GM Canopies GM Canopies is the sole distributor in N. Ireland and the Rep. of Ireland for Vitabri canopies, tables and accessories.

Vitabri canopies are manufactured in fourteen sizes and thirty-three colours.

Our graphics and printing department can design and print to your exact specifications.

183 Tamlaght Road, Omagh, Co. Tyrone BT78 5LL Tel: 028 8224 4025 Fax: 028 8224 3338 (Rep. of Ireland. prefix 048) Email: gmcanopies@btinternet.com www.gmcanopies.com FuneralTimes | 65

What is the hardest thing you have to do?

I

’m sure that many undertakers have been asked this question. When recently posed to Civil Funeral Celebrant, Mary Elizabeth Dillon, she replied as follows.

There are many difficult situations such as people who die by suicide or in tragic circumstances, but recently I have had to prepare services for two babies, and I did find it difficult. Going into a family home to talk to grieving parents is never going to be easy but in both circumstances the parents welcomed the opportunity to talk and to tell of their experiences, and that made things easier for me.

In one case I prepared a service to take place in Mt Jerome for a baby that had died aged only two weeks. The Angel Chapel in Mt Jerome is a beautifully appointed space where families can gather in an atmosphere of peace and quiet to say their farewells.

The service I prepared had music chosen by the parents, poems and a children’s story, all of which were read by me as no one in the family felt up to doing the reading

themselves. Finally I read a piece written by the parents and dedicated to their child. It was difficult, one couldn’t be human and not have felt the emotion of the day, but it gave some measure of closure to the family.

Secondly, I presided over a service of the interring of ashes of a still-born baby into a family grave. The parents in this case had been unable to have a service at the cremation and so this service was very important to them. At the graveside we had a singer who sang ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’, really wringing all the emotion out of us, but it was what the parents wanted and it was right and proper for them, making it right and proper for all in attendance also. We also had poems and a story and at the end of the service I asked those present to move away allowing the parents to inter the ashes with total privacy.

These are the hardest services to prepare and attend but they are also the most beautiful and fulfilling, lingering longest in the memory.

Civil Funerals Ireland Simple, unique, personal funeral services • An alternative to the traditional • Celebrating Life • Reflecting the wishes and beliefs of the deceased and their loved ones • Provides an opportunity to pay a fitting tribute • Any suitable venue can be used

Mary Elizabeth Dillon is available between 9am - 11pm 7 days a week Tel ROI: 053 938 9089 / Mobile: 087 957 4476 Email: info@civilfuneralsireland.com

Funerals conducted throughout Ireland 66 | FuneralTimes

We are looking to acquire funeral businesses in Ireland Dignity would like to talk to you if you are thinking of selling your business.

Why choose Dignity?

1. We are funeral people - it’s all we do. We are obsessive about the standard of service we offer families we and 99% of our clients say that we met or exceeded their expectations.

2. You will deal directly with a main board director who has complete authority to agree all terms.

In other words you will be dealing principal to principal. The result is a quick and simple transaction.

3. We respect Irish funeral culture and traditions and since 2008 operate from a number of locations, including Belfast, Bangor, Newtownards, Carrickfergus and Newtownabbey.

4. We have a proven track record of investing in what were previously independent businesses and securing the future of employees and former owners, many of whom stay with us in a consultancy or management role. The result is that local families continue to receive the highest standard of service for generations to come.

“Dignity has honoured every promise made to us when they bought Kirkwood’s.”

DAVID RICE

Area Manager and former manager of Kirkwood Funeral Directors, Belfast & Newtownards Please call Andrew Davies, Operations Director or Mike McCollum, Chief Executive. Between us we have over 50 year’s funeral experience and will be delighted to deal with you in the strictest confidence without any obligation.

Contact Mike McCollum, Chief Executive or Andrew Davies Operations Director: Dignity plc, 4 King Edwards Court King Edwards Square, Sutton Coldfield B73 6AP Email: mike.mccollum@dignityuk.co.uk | andrew.davies@dignityuk.co.uk Telephone: 0121 354 1557 | www.dignityfunerals.co.uk

Dr Bill Webster

Breaking bad news to children “Can you HELP!” was the simple email request from my funeral director friend.

A young mother had died after complications following what was supposed to be a routine surgical procedure. The grandparents who were looking after the children didn’t know what to do, and had decided not to tell them, delaying what would be an obviously difficult moment.

“Right now we are all just so totally distraught,” they had told the funeral director. “Is there some sort of procedure in informing the children?”

I could identify with them. One of the most difficult things I ever had to do in my life was telling my two sons, who were 9 and 7 years of age at the time, that their mother had died.

Both parents and children need to find ways to communicate effectively when disaster strikes. This will be a 2 part article specifically designed to assist people who have to break bad news to children.

Basic Suggestions • First, distinguish your own emotions about the news from your feelings about what to tell your kids. Take a few minutes (or hours) yourself to try to adjust to the news. It’s always harder to talk about bad news with others when it’s an overwhelmingly emotional issue for you.

• Be open to your kids’ reactions. Some may cry. Others may get angry. Some may not seem to react at all. Don’t read too much into the child’s initial reaction. For some, it takes a while for the news to sink in.

• Give information according to your 68 | FuneralTimes

child’s age. Younger children will require less “factual” information than older teenagers. After sharing the information, answer any questions the kids may have.

• Reassure the children. When bad things happen, their main issue is “how is this going to affect ME?” What they need to hear most in that moment is that you love them and that you are there for them now and in the future. They’re going to be OK, and they need to be reassured of that. If you’re uncertain how long you can be there for children (such as when you receive a terminal prognosis), make sure they know of other caring, trusted adults who will also be there for them. Children need to know, above all, that they are going to be OK. • Talk about what the bad news means for them personally. Be as clear as possible about how the bad news will make their life change—or not change. Older kids will want to know more details about this than younger kids.

Guidelines for Telling Children Bad News 1. Wait till you have a complete story Before breaking news to your children, wait until you have as many facts as possible. Children are prone to taking the information you offer and filling in any missing details with their own imaginations. And the imagination often paints a much darker picture than the reality, as difficult as that reality may be.

Being able to tell a complete story is the best way to present information. Granted, you don’t always have everything you need

to know, and waiting too long to share information can be dangerous as well.

2. Faith and Fibs When breaking bad news, avoid the urge to invent facts or share things you hope or think are facts. Stick to the story, but tell it in a gentle way. Above all, don’t fabricate the truth. Secrets or fibs can often be worse for children to deal with than the truth. Sometimes we say things in an attempt to “spare the child the grief ” which can be hard for most children to swallow. One lady, in order to comfort her daughter who was distraught over the death of her pet cat, told her that, “God must have wanted another cat in heaven.”

To which the child replied, “Don’t be silly.

What would God want with a dead cat?”

It is far better to explain to your child that the cat (or grandma) was sick and died so that they wouldn’t hurt anymore. We can never “replace” what has been lost, so you might want to wait a bit before

introducing a new pet. Otherwise the child might be confused about how she should respond to the new pet and how to grieve for one that has died. Later on, you could introduce the new pet in a completely separate capacity than the old one.

Even clichés about “Grandma going to a better place” can leave the child wondering what was wrong with this place; or what they did to make this place so miserable that grandma felt she’d be better off in another place.

3. Use Age-Appropriate Language When explaining to a four-year-old that someone has died, you’ll certainly use different phrases and terms than you would with a ten-year-old. Helping a child both understand and process the news is critical. Using terms he/she might not understand and might not question can leave them confused. Use simple terms and clear, concise explanations

FuneralTimes | 69

for children of all ages. Try to avoid additional statements that might give conflicting messages or confusing details to the child.

While every child understands according to their developmental level, which can vary at similar ages, here are a few general age appropriate suggestions: Children ages birth to 5 • Break bad news to the child in a comfortable place. For example, have them sit on your lap or talk to them on his/her bed. Having their favourite comfort item available (a blanket, a stuffed animal or favourite toy) can also help. Remember, this news is going to be perceived as a “threat” to their very existence, and you need to reassure them that they are going to be OK. Creating a warm, safe environment with the physical expression of holding, hugging, rocking, and reassurances of personal safety counteract the confusion and restore some sense of security.

• Try to be calm—even if the news is upsetting to you. If you’re overly emotional, your child may feel like he or she needs to take care of you instead of having their own reaction.

• Roll with your child’s reactions. Many young children don’t understand what “death” or “divorce” or other big topics are. They may shrug their shoulders and then ask you to play. They’re not being insensitive. Usually they aren’t old enough to understand what the bad news is all about, or what its implications for them might be.

• No matter how hard you try to explain, children around 5 cannot comprehend that someone can be gone forever.

Mommy is gone … but will be coming home soon. Her ongoing absence means a loss of security for a younger child.

Children ages 6–9 • Between ages 6-9, children begin to realize that death is irreversible, but assume it cannot happen to anyone in their family. Their concept of death is as something that can be controlled. If we do not make children a part of what is happening, or keep it “a secret”, the 70 | FuneralTimes

child assumes that somehow they are responsible. This frequently mistaken perception merely adds complications to their mourning.

• Do something special with your child.

You can say that when bad things happen, it often helps to do something you enjoy to try to feel better. For example, ask the child what he/she would like to do with you. Maybe they will want to go to the playground, play a board game, or go for ice-cream.

• Don’t be surprised if your child tries to blame you or someone else for the bad news. It’s hard for children at this age to understand that sometimes bad things can just happen, and isn’t someone’s “fault.”

• Try to find age-appropriate books on the bad-news topic from your local library.

Kids often feel less alone when they read books about other kids going through the same experience.

Children ages 10–11 By ages 10-11, children understand the permanence of death. They are able to grasp some of life’s mysteries, and can think in the abstract. They will carry clearer memories of the experience into the future.

• Be patient with every child’s unique grieving process. Your child may seem fine one day and then a complete wreck the next. Stick with them, reassure them, and answer their questions.

• Since some kids at this age are emotionally volatile, it may be tempting to withhold bad news. It’s important and better to be honest with kids and not to be afraid of their reactions.

• If you’re concerned about how little your child is talking to you about the bad news, talk to other significant adults in your child’s life, such as their teacher, coach, or club leader. Sometimes a child will talk better to another adult, and it helps if everyone knows the same information.

Above all, especially when it comes to children, “One must talk little and listen much.”

Part 2 of this article will appear in the next issue.

WD Carriages set for Funeral Times Trade Show WD Carriages of Derry/Londonderry are pleased to announce their upcoming participation in the Funeral Times Trade Show 2015 at Citywest Hotel, Dublin, September 29th and 30th.

WD Carriages is a family run firm, striving to go above and beyond to meet every funeral need. An experienced team of professional, caring and confidential individuals, WD Carriages are celebrated for the elegance they offer, priding themselves on their horse-drawn hearse, led by a pair of beautiful and gentle black ‘Friesians’, always presented to the highest standard with black or white plumes and draped in black and purple.

The company is available for travel across Ireland and wish to express that distance is no object. Sadly, the Friesians will not be making an appearance at Citywest this September, however WD Carriages will have

on display a stunning example of one of their celebrated carriages and encourage all to come, have a look, and say hello.

Contact WD Carriages on T: 028 7136 1052 / 07891 347356 / 07706 016359 or email: wdcarriages@hotmail.co.uk

WD Carriages offer a professional service, hiring horse drawn carriages for all occasions

T: 028 7136 1052 / M: 07891 347356 / M: 07706 016359 E: wdcarriages@hotmail.co.uk

Professional Embalmers' Association of Ireland T

he Professional Embalmers’ Association of Ireland is a non-profit organization dedicated in the practice of embalming. Being an independent association, we are the voice of the professional embalmers in Ireland within the European Association of Embalmers. We focus our efforts in the progressive education and up-to-date information of our members.

We are dedicated in pursuing the highest standards in the embalming practice.

The PEAI meeting held in Radisson Blu Hotel, Limerick has been another successful gathering of its members. Educational presentations in current practices and theoretical concepts were highly refreshing and informative. With the combined efforts of the officers and the relentless support of the members coming from all counties around Ireland, the PEAI is growing in strength and in number.

After successful completion of both the final written examination and the Objective Structured Practical Examination conducted by the DCA Examination Board of Mortuary Science, the Professional Embalmers’ Association of Ireland is very happy to award certificates to its new members- Alan Rogers

Frank Kelly 72 | FuneralTimes

Alan Rogers (Sligo) and Frank Kelly (Wicklow). Presenting the certificates to the new members is Mr. Joe McNamara (pictured), PEAI Chairperson.

All members are invited to come to our General Meeting and Annual General Meeting which will be held during the Funeral Times Trade Show in CityWest Hotel, Co. Dublin this coming September 2015. Details of the meeting are available to all members through the Professional Embalmers’ website www. professionalembalmers.ie. We will be sending out invitations and notices to all members with details of the meeting. Again, we will be expecting another big gathering for an exciting event and educational session.

FUNERAL TIMES TRADE SHOW The PEAI is joining the Funeral Times Trade Show this coming September 29th and 30th which will be held in the Citywest Hotel and Conference Centre, Saggart, Co. Dublin.

We have exciting presentations lined up for everyone so come along and do not miss our booth in the trade show!

Check out new updates on our website www.professionalembalmers.ie or find us on Facebook.

Jo

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s at th

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s Tra de Sh

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FuneralTimes | 73

J.B. Roche & Sons Suppliers to the funeral trade since 1890

• Coffins • Embalming Fluid • Handles • Cremfilm • Drapery • Wreaths • Linings • Grave Ornaments • Mortuary Supplies • Grave Plaques One stop shop for all funeral supplies

Tel: 021 4975214 Fax: 021 4975215 Contact: Jim O’Reilly or Sean O’Donovan at: Unit C2, Grange Industrial Estate, Ballycurreen, Kinsale Road, Cork

Tallon Mortuary Specialists School of Embalming Qualify for membership of an internationally recognised embalming qualification (BIE) at your own pace The ‘Tallon Mortuary Specialists School of Embalming’ offers both Distance Learning and attended courses leading to membership of the British Institute of Embalmers The ‘Tallon Mortuary Specialists School of Embalming’ offers students and registered embalmers the highest standards of teaching and practice in a supportive environment, with full use of our training facility.

For further information and to discuss how this course might work for you contact:

Glyn Tallon - 14 Academy Street, Navan, Co. Meath Mobile: 086 826 8876 Web: www.tallonmortuaryspecialists.com / Email: info@tallonmortuaryspecialists.com 74 | FuneralTimes

Congratulations to Woodvale W

oodvale Funeral Services are celebrating being once again presented with the SAIF / Golden Charter Regional Funeral Planners of the Year award 2015.

This prestigious award has recognised personal excellence and professional commitment in one of the most difficult

and challenging areas of serving the public.

Ronnie Wayte, Golden Charter Chief Executive said, “In this, the 22nd year of the awards, they are more competitive than ever before. This is well earned proof that Woodvale Funeral Services have reached a remarkable standard”.

Wreath Manufacture & Wholesale At Tom Sharkey & Sons Ltd.

Barrack Street, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon.

All wreaths are created by fully qualified florists, reflecting contemporary design in floral arrangements All at very competitive prices Special requests catered for at shortest notice

n Free next day delivery on orders over €100

We have an extensive stock ready for delivery or collection including: • Circles of Life • Posies • Sprays • Hearts • Crosses • Cushions • Pillows • Gates of Heaven • Footballs and Jerseys • Posies with Candles • Lettering Wreaths Discounts apply on scale of your orders

n Call or email now to receive our new brochure

Telephone: +00353 (0)94 986 0658 or email: sales@allseasonsflorists.ie FuneralTimes | 75

37A Barrow Road, Dublin Industrial Estate, Glasnevin, Dublin11

Tel: (+353) 01-8828731

www.djmacneice.com 76 | FuneralTimes

email: sales@djmacneice.com

A one stop shop I

t has been another successful year of supplying our customers with a full range of funeral supplies.

Here at DJ Mac Neice we continue a long tradition of supplying high quality, competitively priced funeral and mortuary products to funeral directors and embalmers all over the country.

Originally based in Dublin city centre, the business moved to its current premises in Glasnevin in 2002.

Here we serve as a one stop shop for all your funeral and mortuary needs. The door is always open should you wish to pay us a visit, as many customers do.

Here you can browse our extensive range of products which include coffin mountings and linings, funeral accessories such as grave markers, traffic cones and condolence books all the way to cardboard coffins.

We offer a customising service for condolence books and umbrellas. Just provide your business details and we can print them on condolence books and umbrellas in gold or silver. This is a great way to get your business name out there. Our full range of PCS registered embalming chemicals; the only PCS registered embalming chemicals in the country, are displayed in our show room. This is a must see for any embalmer!

As well as embalming chemicals we supply a full range of embalming products such as instruments, personal protective equipment and mortuary airbrush make-up kits.

Our fully trained sales team will be on hand should

you have any questions regarding any products. We are constantly updating our product range to bring you the latest innovations in the industry. If there is something we don’t stock that you want we are more than happy to source it for you.

If you can’t personally call we have many other ways for you to place an order with us. We are always contactable by phone so you can call in an order anytime. This comes with the benefit of next day delivery so you can be confident you will have the products you need, when you need them. Alternatively, our extensive range of products is available to view on our newly launched website. You can place your quote request through our website and a friendly member of our sales team will contact you.

We can also arrange for our representative on the road to call to your business with samples of our products.

They will be on hand to show you all that DJ Mac Neice has to offer.

DJ Mac Neice has a long history in the funeral industry but our aim has always stayed the same - to provide products of the highest quality at a competitive price while delivering excellent customer service. We look forward to doing business with you in the future.

DJ Mac Neice & Co. Ltd, 37a Barrow Road, Dublin Industrial Estate, Glasnevin, Dublin 11. 01-8828731 sales@djmacneice.com www.djmacneice.com FuneralTimes | 77

Behind the scenes tour

Inside the Wilcox workshop

Funeral Directors were given an enthusiastic welcome to Wilcox Limousines manufacturing site in Wigan what every funeral director aspires to own Guests were invited to an unrivalled and run for their fleet.” opportunity to explore the behind the scenes Carwyn Iles of Harp Funeral Services in build process of a Wilcox funeral vehicle, Wales was delighted with their privileged including Jaguar Hearses and Limousines, access “I found it interesting, informative Hearsettes® and Removal Vans. and was amazed by the amount of work that The team leaders gave the tours in small goes on behind the scenes - This was a great groups and spoke passionately about how opportunity to see this. I also really enjoyed the company was founded over 65 years how family orientated the business is and ago in 1948 by the Wilcox Family. Today how that comes across in their work force.” it is run by second and third generation family members, with this caring ethos clearly visible amongst their team of 70 personnel at Wigan.

“We have always been ahead of the curve with our manufacturing process and end results – after all the cars speak for themselves” said Martyn Templett who has been with the company since the age of 16, joining in 1980 over 35 years ago.

Clive Wakely from A. J. Wakely of Dorset, who drove over 5 hours to be there agreed, stating that “Jaguars are pinnacles, it’s Some of the guests that attended the open day 78 | FuneralTimes

Peter Gaunt from F. P. Gaunt who cover the Black Country said their family had always used Daimler or Jaguar vehicles.

His father and uncle, Stanley and Ron first starting working with founder Bill Wilcox back in the 1950’s. “The Jaguars are the best funeral vehicle on the road, or in my local dialect ‘they arf good’, they are by far the most prestigious funeral vehicle on the road” laughed Peter.

“Everybody should come for a tour of the premises, I’d recommend it to anyone, especially if they are thinking of placing an order as you understand the process, the advanced equipment used, the hand build and bespoke nature which makes you appreciate the price tag!” said Daniel Ginder of MK Ginder of Watford.

However some people were more pleased with the sumptuous spread laid on “It was very professional, I’m really impressed – with the buffet that is!” joked Ian Birtwistle of Birtwistles of Bolton.

Hard at work

Further Open Days are being held on the following dates: On the production line

Wednesday 29th July 10am (3 spaces left) NEW DATES ADDED Thursday 17th September 11am Friday 23rd October 11am (Ideal to visit before the Warrington BIFD conference) Tea, coffee and light refreshments will be provided.

Contact Cathy at: enquiries@wilcoxlims.co.uk or call (01753) 480600

FuneralTimes | 79

Avoid the queues register online today! www.funeraltimestradeshowireland.com 80 | FuneralTimes

Bespoke Funeral and Joinery Software!

T

he small family business of F. Irving & Son has proudly served the local community in Frizington, Cumbria as funeral directors and joiners for over half a century.

Now in its third generation, it is managed

by Malcolm and Stephen Irving, grandsons of Fred Irving who in the sixties bought the business from his former employer Harry Massey, where Fred had served his time after starting years earlier as a school leaver.

The business is a member of the National Association of Funeral Directors, and they offer advice on pre-paid funeral plans tailored to many needs and wishes. They are also proud to offer the use of their new and tastefully refurbished Funeral Parlour on Main Street in Frizington. Most of the work has been done "in house" to Malcolm and Stephen's own high standard. The Funeral Parlour is very modern, but retains the close, calming atmosphere that a family expects at one of their saddest times. It has all the modern equipment needed to keep everything under their strict and expert control.

Stephen and Malcolm employ a joiner and together run a traditional (and very busy) joinery and uPVC Window business. They are very proud of the fact that the name Irving is often the first thought of many families they have had the honour of caring for over many years, not only as dignified and caring funeral directors but also as joiners, building a unique relationship with a wide cross section of people.

Malcolm and Stephen have been using Eulogica’s bespoke funeral software since 2011, when they took the decision to invest in software to modernise the business, as well as streamlining their administration work.

“The software is fantastic,” Stephen tells us.

“We’re absolutely bowled over by the fact that is has been set up so that we can run both the funeral and the joinery sides of the business!

The training was also very, very good, and made perfect sense even to us, who aren’t the best with computers!”

“The support is also top notch,” continues Stephen. “It’s reassuring to know that there’s someone at the end of the phone who not only understands our software, but understands the funeral business as well.

The Eulogica system has made our life much easier, and the business far more efficient.”

Malcolm adds, “The best part is the fact that we only have to enter the funeral information once, and the system generates everything we need from it. Our accountant also thinks Eulogica is magic! He says the quality of the reports it generates for him is excellent, and makes his life much easier.”

FuneralTimes | 81

Joyceans in Full Bloom at Glasnevin Cemetery The annual Bloomsday event at Glasnevin Cemetery took place on 16th June, celebrating the life of Irish novelist and poet James Joyce. The event was marked by a costumed performance from the ‘Joycestagers’ of chapter six, 'Hades', from Ulysses, which is set in Glasnevin Cemetery, a special Joycean themed tour of the Cemetery, and performance of 'Friends', a play set around two friends of Joyce awaiting his arrival on a park bench.

Glasnevin Cemetery holds a special place for Joyce devotees, as chapter six, 'Hades', from Ulysses is set in the grounds of the Cemetery.

In the ‘Hades’ chapter, Leopold Bloom accompanies Simon, Stephen's father to Paddy Dignam's funeral and decides from then on to reject morbid thoughts and to embrace 'warm full-blooded life'. A fully costumed performance of this chapter was performed by the ‘Joycestagers’ who embraced the day and brought the world of Ulysses to life for those who attended.

The enactment was followed by a specialised Joycean tour, led by Paddy Gleeson, beginning outside the main entrance to the Glasnevin Cemetery. The tour moved throughout the cemetery, taking in historic graves on the way, most notably the writer’s father John Stanislaus Joyce, along with the final resting-places of a multitude of people from the novel, Ulysses, and from James Joyce’s life. A performance of 'Friends' by Kevin O’Connor took place in the Museum’s Milestone Gallery following the tour of the Cemetery.

'Friends' is a critically acclaimed 35 minute play based on the cards sent by James Joyce to his University friends Cosgrave and Byrne while he was living away from Dublin. Providing a glimpse into the real man as opposed to the myth, Cosgrave and Byrne await the arrival of their old friend while debating topics such as Joyce’s intellect and misremembered encounters with his wife, Nora Barnacle.

Starring seasoned actors Ed Cosgrave and Jim Roche, 'Friends' is a delightful addition to the annual Bloomsday event in Glasnevin 82 | FuneralTimes

Cemetery. CEO of the Glasnevin Trust George McCullough commented, “Bloomsday at Glasnevin Cemetery is one of our most popular and festive days of the year. When James Joyce began to set a scene for a funeral in 1904, his automatic choice was Glasnevin Cemetery, Irelands Necropolis. Many of the characters from Ulysses found their final resting place here within the Cemetery walls, including Paddy Dignan, Michael Cusack (the citizen) and of course Joyce’s own father John Stanislaus”.

This special day is chosen as it is the day depicted in Joyce’s novel Ulysses, which follows the life and thoughts of Leopold Bloom, the central character of the novel, and other characters from 8am on the 16th of June 1904 through to the early hours of the following morning.

For further information on the event visit www.glasnevintrust.ie & www.glasnevinmuseum.ie

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