Funeral Times issue 1 2017

The magazine for Funeral Directors in Ireland

2017 Vol.17 No.1

Funeral Director Solutions Traffic management solutions for Funeral Directors

www.funeraldirectorsolutions.ie

Tuesday 3rd Wednesday 4th October 2017

Bringing it all together Citywest Hotel & Conference Centre, Saggart, Co. Dublin If your business is providing funeral products to the Ireland and UK market, the Funeral Times Trade Show Ireland 2017 is a must for your sales campaign There are VERY LIMITED space options and exhibition areas remaining! To avoid disappointment contact us urgently and...

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Call 028/048 3835 5060 or email sales@funeraltimes.com

The magazine for Funeral Directors in Ireland

Fermanagh Funeral Director honoured............................ 4

New home for Finlay....................................................... 9

Contents

BIE Education Weekend................................................ 27

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

Wesley Elliott honoured in New Years List.................. 4 Finlay moves home......................................................... 9 IAFD News.................................................................... 12 Tech start-ups target death business............................ 20 BIE News....................................................................... 26 Mattie Lennon meets a punster.................................... 30 NAFD News................................................................... 35 PEAI News..................................................................... 41 Adrian Byrne - the grave issue of infectious disease.44 SAIF News..................................................................... 51 Padraic Cawley appreciates feedback............................ 54 Crowdfunded funerals on the rise................................ 55 New natural woodland gravesite for Co. Down.......... 60 Mary Elizabeth Dillon - bringing a family together... 62 Dr Bill Webster is determined to have no regrets........ 65 Evidence suggests - drinking at funerals is not new.. 69 Jennifer Muldowney on the celebrity columbarium.... 71 Logging off one last time............................................. 78 Classifieds...................................................................... 80

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.

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Wesley Elliott receives BEM in New Year’s Honours list

The announcement that Samuel Robert Wesley Elliott, best known as Wesley, of Darling Street, Enniskillen, was to be awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM), having been named in the New Year Honours 2017 List - Northern Ireland, came as a delightful development. This was in recognition of his long-standing and dedicated service to the community in County Fermanagh.

A

well-known and highly-regarded local figure, Trillick-born Wesley has served 53 years as a Funeral Director with the family firm, S.R. Elliott & Sons, Funeral Directors, 17 Darling Street, Enniskillen.

“I am delighted and extremely pleased to receive the award, one doesn’t feel that one is worthy of such an award,” was Wesley’s reaction to the exciting news, acknowledging 4 | FuneralTimes

that “I do regard it as a very high honour and it is something very special indeed and I feel very humbled by it.”

S.R. Elliott and Sons was originally established in 1930 by Samuel Robert Elliott in Trillick. Samuel, Wesley’s father, fulfilled his ambition of expanding the business, relocating to Enniskillen in 1963.

With the support of his wife Rhene, Samuel

continued to develop, making S.R. Elliott & Sons a valued and well-established concern within Fermanagh’s business community. After Samuel and Rhene died, Wesley and his wife Hester took over the firm, continuing to expand the business and to innovate, making a very personal commitment to meeting clients’ needs and to ensuring that S.R. Elliott & Sons remains a highly respected business within the local community. For the Elliott’s, S.R. Elliott & Sons is very much a family run concern.

Wesley himself encapsulates the very values the family firm prides itself on, and is known for his caring, professional and dignified manner. The family firmly believe in their motto, ‘The quality of our service will help you through this most difficult time in your life’, striving to maintain the

standards set by S.R. Elliott over 80 years ago, and carried on by Wesley and family since. Wesley has worked hard to engrain the firm as a true part of the community in Enniskilen and surrounding areas, with the office still located in the heart of the town, just off the main street. The family have not been afraid to invest in their business either, 2003 seeing the completion of extensive renovations to their Private Funeral Home, seating 50 people and also featuring a private viewing room and full preparation suite.

Wesley and his wife Hester have two daughters, Carole and Joan, and two sonsin-law, Roy and Gary. Their grandchildren are Mark, Amy and Ryan. Wesley has one brother - Gordon, and a sister - Isobel.

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New year, new beginnings!

“Welcome” Stone at Finlay’s New Factory

Excellence in Funeral Products & Services for the last 84 Years Finlay: t/roi: +353 (0) 41 685 3603 - t/uk: ++44 (0) 87 024 10652 e: info@finlaygrp.com - w: www.finlaygrp.com 8 |

Finlay: t/roi: +353 (0) 41 685 3603 - t/uk: ++44 (0) 87 024 10652 - e: info@finlaygrp.com - w: www.finlaygrp.com 8 | FuneralTimes FuneralTimes

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Finlay moves home K

ells Road, Ardee is the new coffin and casket production site for Finlay who recently completed their move in January to a fully refurbished premises on a huge site within their home town.

When I met with Colman Finlay in the early months of 2014 it was just a few weeks after the tragic fire which devastated the Tierney Street premises from which the family firm had operated for more than 80 years, claiming the life of his colleague Ramunas Sinica.

It was immediately striking how, at this time, the company rallied and pulled together to work through the first phase of shock with true determination to keep the business going, while preparing a funeral to bid farewell to one of their own. Even in this moment Colman had to look towards the future and seek to take some positives out of a catastrophic situation.

“It was a dark time”, he comments when I revisited him almost three years later, “The loss of our entire production capacity, stock and facilities was one thing, but dealing with the death of a colleague in such circumstances, and the inevitable fall out which was to follow, made it incredibly difficult. Even when we had a little victory, like manufacturing our first coffin away from Tierney Street, we couldn’t enjoy the moment without feeling the loss.”

Now, three years later, the Finlay team are able to reflect on the uncompromising support they enjoyed from their local community, and from funeral professionals in Ireland, and beyond. “I will always remember the funeral director who drove from Dublin to express his regrets and to

deliver platters of sandwiches for our staff who were working around the clock. They say you only know your friends in times of trouble and it turned out that we had more friends than we knew.”

Colman’s first task was to ensure a continuity of supply for their customers.

This required relocation to emergency premises and a determination from the manufacturing staff to get production running in less than ideal conditions. Within a few days Finlay’s recognised the need to secure at least a temporary solution and identified factory premises just outside the town, allowing a return to full production.

Ironically, one of the first premises which Colman looked at was the factory on the Kells Road to which Finlay’s are now moving. “It was a factory I had always admired”, says Colman, “a really well built unit in a great location inside the town boundary and I made enquiries in the first days after the fire. Unfortunately it was not available to rent and we couldn’t buy it at the time. We were fortunate to get our temporary premises, but they were never going to be a long term home and we needed to make a decision as to whether to rebuild on the Tierney Street site or look elsewhere.”

Finlay’s search for a permanent home was never going to be easy. The firm has operated from Ardee since it’s inception by Colman’s grandfather in 1933 and takes it’s social responsibility as a major employer seriously, creating over 40 direct jobs, as well as opportunities for secondary employment within the town. When the search began there were a number of smaller premises available but Colman came to the conclusion

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that if we had to move it was vital that the new premises offered scope for expansion – future-proofing became the watchword.

“If we had to face a move we wanted to make sure it was the last one for a very long time”, says Colman, “and that meant a location with scope for whatever growth we might need in the future”. It quickly became apparent that the shortlist really only consisted of one building and it was the very premises which Finlay’s had looked at in the days after the fire.

So began a long drawn out negotiation with the owners who, to their credit, understood their social responsibility, and wanted to ensure that any new owners were prepared to offer and potentially grow local employment. It took some months, but eventually the purchase was completed and so began the planning to turn the building into a home which could facilitate Finlay, today, and into the future.

From the start, it was decided to do the best job rather than the cheapest, or quickest.

Colman reveals how, “We were very keen to move as soon as possible, but we were determined to put the work in now so that whatever faces us in the future we are prepared for it.” To this end work began on the building and the site with a complete programme of rewiring and re-plumbing undertaken. Security fencing and lighting was designed to enhance the attractive semi-rural location and while some trees had to be removed as they had gone beyond their natural lifespan, others were retained and a programme of planting undertaken, giving the site an attractive, natural feel.

Inside, Colman again reinforced his futureproofing mantra with an electrics and water supply capable of handling every foreseeable eventuality. One feature of our new process 10 | FuneralTimes

which we are quite proud of is the dust extraction system which extracts sawdust from the factory and makes briquettes, in turn used to heat the factory. “We are an environmentally aware company and this is just such a neat solution, turning problem waste into useable energy”, says Colman.

The office area is huge compared to the Tierney Street base and will allow superb showrooms for visiting funeral directors. Here the plan is to utilize modern technology with large screens displaying the firm’s extensive product range.

With the installation of new machinery and the opportunity to plan a large open space exactly to their own requirements, Finlay is already producing more coffins and different styles per week than they were able to handle in their former premises.

The move took place over two weekends in January and Colman looks back on the project with justifiable pride. “This was a move borne out of a terrible accident and we take seriously our responsibility to make the best of a bad situation by setting up the company for future generations to both protect and to provide future employment.

I look back with mixed emotions but largely of pride and gratitude – pride in the outstanding performance of our whole staff who worked so hard, often in trying circumstances, to keep the business running throughout. We never used our moves as an excuse and always tried to ensure that we kept our customers supplied. And gratitude for the humbling support Finlay received from those throughout Funeral Service in Ireland and beyond.“ Over the next few months, Finlay looks forward to showing their new factory premises to friends and customers. Expect a great welcome at Kells Road, Ardee!

CODE OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT Commitment to the Family To serve each family in a professional and caring manner, being respectful to their Wishes and confidences and being honest and fair in all dealings with them.

Commitment to the Care of the Deceased To care for each deceased person with the highest respect and dignity and to transport, prepare and shelter the remains in a professional, caring and conscientious manner.

Commitment to the Public To offer services in accordance with the highest principles of honesty, fair dealing and professionalism.

Commitment to the Government To maintain strict compliance with the letter and spirit of all governmental laws and regulations that impact the deceased, the bereaved family, the embalming profession and the public health.

Commitment to the PEAI To promote, participate and support the Professional Embalmers’ Association of Ireland in its mission to help all members enhance the quality of the embalming service to families.

New Buick style hearse for Fitzgerald’s Fitzgerald’s of Rush, Co. Dublin with their new Buick style hearse from Fearghas Quinn Hearse & Limousines is the Funeral tenth Buick, sincecollects Quinn’shis introduced the U.S.Fearghas model in R. Gibney of Gibneys of(this Oldcastle Directors, new hearse from December 2014) Quinn Hearse and Limousines.

Tallon Mortuary Specialists Professional, Confidential and Caring Services

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 students and registered embalmers the highest standards of teaching and practice in a supportive environment, with full use of our training facility.

We offer both Distance Learning and attended courses leading to membership of the British Institute of Embalmers

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

Glyn Tallon - 14 Academy Street, Navan, Co. Meath Tel: 086 826 8876 / Fax: 046 903 6001 Web: www.tallonmortuaryspecialists.com Email: info@tallonmortuaryspecialists.com FuneralTimes | 11

Irish Association of Funeral Directors Promoting Excellence in Funeral Service

IAFD News

A message from IAFD 2017 President John Foley My first pleasure as the new President of the IAFD is to congratulate my immediate predecessor, Gerard Clarke, for arranging an excellent Annual General Meeting and Dinner Dance in his home town of Sligo on 19th November last.

I am sure those who attended the events will share my view that the whole experience was most enjoyable. I also wish to record my appreciation to

(L-R) John Foley being presented with the President’s chains by outgoing president of the IAFD Gerard Clarke

Gerard for all the hard work and dedication he brought to his term as President which resulted in quite a number of significant outcomes including the following: One of Gerard’s main objectives was to raise the profile of the IAFD with Government and other stakeholders. After much effort and an introduction by Stephen Collier, Bray, a meeting was arranged last October with the Minister for Health, Simon Harris, T.D. The Board of the IAFD is determined to ensure that you as Funeral Directors and members of the IAFD receive the respect and support you deserve. As part of this strategy during the last year, under Gerard’s stewardship, we have strengthened our links with Irish Hospice Foundation, Coroners Association of Ireland, Nursing Homes Ireland and many other groups who have an interest in our sector. We had meetings with and made representations to the Emergency Planning Section of the Department of the Environment, The Bar Association of Ireland, An Post and Banking Institutions.

We will be continuing this worthwhile activity in 2017.

We also continue to examine benefits that we might offer to the membership and in the past year have added two new benefits in the areas of fuel supply and energy provision.

12 | FuneralTimes

Irish Association of Funeral Directors Promoting Excellence in Funeral Service

IAFD News

During the next few months our Education Committee will redesign the Certificate in Funeral Practice. A new condensed education course designed with more funeralspecific study modules which will benefit all concerned – it will focus on relevant practical applications. This will be an affordable course with less impact time-wise on our demanding work schedules.

In conclusion, during my year as President I intend, respectfully, to build on the successful work that has been achieved on your behalf by the Board of the IAFD. It is said that one of the most important keys to success is to be a good listener and I’m a great believer in the power of good listening – The American writer George Carlin once said – I’m always relieved when someone is reading a Eulogy and I realise I’m listening to it. In our profession, the art of attentiveness is a crucially important key to success and service. I also intend to be a good listener to you all over the coming year!

Yours Sincerely

John Foley

President, IAFD

Why Join the IAFD? For just a little more than €1cent a day you get: • Professional Indemnity Insurance

• Code of Practice

• Membership of professional organisation recognised by the general public

• Access to IAFD Education Programme • Excellence Programme

• Unique all island network of funeral directors • Representation of members with Government, Local Authorities and Media • Funeral Directors led organisation for promoting and developing standards of funeral service

• Board of Funeral professionals available to assist Members • Dispute Resolution and Mediation • Legal Advisory Service • Links to other trade Associations

Applications for membership of IAFD: Please visit www.iafd.ie and download an Application Form.

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Irish Association of Funeral Directors Promoting Excellence in Funeral Service

IAFD News

2016 IAFD AGM & Dinner Dance T he IAFD 2016 AGM and Dinner Dance were held in The Glasshouse Hotel, Sligo on Saturday the 19th November.

Those in attendance at the AGM were treated to displays from 12 exhibitors and later the guest speaker, Colin Bell, Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust, informed the meeting of the incredible work of the charity which has assisted with the repatriation of 230 people who have died tragically abroad during the last three years.

Colin & his wife Eithne were guests for the President’s Dinner. €1695 was raised at the Dinner for the Trust Fund which was presented to Colin at the end of the night.

Presentations were also made to two of the candidates who successfully completed the Certificate in Funeral Practice in 2016.

(L-R) Colin Bell being presented with a cheque for €1695 by Gerard Clarke 14 | FuneralTimes

The evening was very entertaining with comedian Shane Cunningham providing the laughs and Deja Groove the music, enjoyed till late by the members and guests from Cork to Donegal and Dublin to Galway.

The full set of photographs taken on the night can be viewed on the members only page of the IAFD website.

Elaine Ward (Wards Funeral Home Ballybay) and Charlie Poots (Funeral Services/ Northern Ireland) receiving their certificates

Irish Association of Funeral Directors Promoting Excellence in Funeral Service

IAFD News

A word of congratulations

Townleys of Drogheda at their presentation ceremony A special mention for three of our members who have shared their news with us recently; Congratulations to Townleys of Drogheda who recently were awarded a Professional Service Excellent Award 2016 from the Drogheda and District Chamber.

Congratulations also to Donnacha Doyle & Sons in Kilmacow, Co. Kilkenny who recently opened their new funeral home.

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Irish Association of Funeral Directors Promoting Excellence in Funeral Service

IAFD News

Congratulations to Staffords Funeral Directors who won the National Q Mark “Highly Commended” Award for Quality Managements Systems at the National Q Mark Awards 2016, which were held on 30th September. Pictured above receiving the award from Irene Collins CEO EIQA with Leo Varadkar are John Kennedy, Jonathan Stafford, Nigel Brothers, Stephen Murphy, Chris Davis and Nevan Stafford.

IAFD Regional Meetings 2017 February 23rd – Galway at 5.00pm Maldron Hotel Carrowmoneash, Oranmore, Galway.

June 22nd – Thurles at 5.00pm Horse & Jockey Hotel Kilnoe, Thurles September 21st – Dundalk at 5.00pm Crown Plaza Hotel Beanna Green, Park Avenue, Haggardstown, Dundalk IAFD – Continuing Personal Development (CPD) Workshops will be held in conjunction with the above Regional Meetings. These are for members or their employees, details of the topics and times etc. will be issued in advance of each Workshop in due course.

16 | FuneralTimes

Irish Association of Funeral Directors Promoting Excellence in Funeral Service

IAFD News

John Foley (President) Jennings Funeral Directors 81 Amien Street Dublin 1 Ph: 01-8555511 Mary Cunniffe (First Vice President) Massey Bros Funeral Home Templeogue Village, Dublin 6W Mobile: 085-8010742, Ph: 014-907601 Email: mary.cunniffe@hotmail.com Gerard Clarke (Immediate Past President) Gerard Clarke & Sons Funeral Home Main Street, Balisodare, Sligo Ph: 071-9130700 Mobile: 087-2565310 Email: gerardclarkeandsons@eircom.net Edwina Fitzgerald ( Hon. Secretary) Fitzgerald Funeral Directors Channel Road Rush Co. Dublin Ph: 01-8438772 Email: fitzgeraldfuneraldirectors@gmail.com Dermot McCarthy (Hon Treasurer) McCarthy’s Funeral Home Gurrane, Banteer, Cork.

Ph: 029-56044 Email: dermot@mccarthyfuneraldirectors.com

Colm Kieran (P.R.O.) Kieran Bros. Funeral Directors Kingscourt, Co. Cavan.

Mobile: 087-6218740, Ph: 042-9667309 Email: colmkieran@gmail.com Michael Crowley (Chair – Education Committee – with G. Clarke) Crowley Funeral Directors Bothar Saclay, Ballincollig, Co. Cork.

Phone: 021 4874777 Email: info@crowleyfuneraldirectors.ie Robert Fanagan (Chair - Membership & Excellence Committee) Fanagans 54 Aungier Street Dublin 2 Ph: 01 475 4101 Email: info@fanagans.ie Andre Thompson Thompson Funeral Directors 19 Barrack Street Waterford Co. Waterford Ph: 051-874159 Email: info@thompsonfunerals.ie

Irish Association of Funeral Directors Promoting Excellence in Funeral Service

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Tech start-ups target the ever-growing death business J

on Card of The Guardian recently released an article exploring the latest attempts made by the tech industry to delve into the field of death.

In what is typically viewed as an overwhelmingly traditional business sector, steeped in convention, those behind this movement have identified an ever-growing need to transition the industry, however gently, into the 21st Century.

The UK population is currently older than it has ever been, with 2039 projected to see more than one in 12 of society aged 80 plus. The death rate has equally risen, up 5.4% year-onyear from 2014 to 2015. The industry of death is rising, as is interest from within the tech industry.

Passing away in the modern era brings with it increasingly complex and new issues, many of which are not yet addressed through the legal system. The treatment or handling of ones online legacies, potentially including tweets, Facebook posts and other virtual creations, following death, is a question which has occupied Suelin Chen, the founder and CEO of online end-of-life planning service Cake.

The web-based platform, as one of a variety of features, offers a concierge facility to manage posthumous profiles online.

Digital legacy is such a new and ever-changing and evolving concept that it is frequently overlooked by traditional will makers.

Additionally, the complex terms and conditions of each site and attached to each account regarding access can pose extremely difficult for grieving relatives, adding unwanted stress at their most vulnerable time.

London-based startup Farewill is another firm focused on growth in line with the increasing

20 | FuneralTimes

Creating legally-binding personal documents online is an increasingly popular alternative death industry. Dan Garrett, founder and CEO, has created a platform through which people may personally create their own will online for £50, and make updates for just £5 per year. In preparation, Dan spent much time with funeral directors, gaining an insight into their day to day experiences and work. His interviews led to the discovery that over half of all people do not draw up a will of any sort, and of those who manage to, many documents are found to be old, out-of-date, and unreflective of the owner’s final requests.

The team at Farewill have training in writing wills and the organization has created roughly 2,000 to date. Dan points out how dying without a will in place leads to a number of complications and costs, with the average sitting at around £9,700 due to unclaimed assets and insufficient tax planning.

With the industry on a steady upward trajectory, it is likely we will see ever-increasing numbers of tech-start ups aiming to get in on the action.

Blue Pearl Granite now at Jet Stone Jet Stone Ltd., fronted by well-known Managing Director Bosco Whelan, are proud to bring to the market a fresh and distinctive new offering in the form of Blue Pearl Granite. Blue Pearl is an elegant metallic blue granite with shimmering black and grey flecks throughout, giving it a striking finish.

With over a decade’s dedicated service supplying the retail trade throughout Ireland to date, Jet Stone Ltd. are wholesale providers of Monumental Headstones and accessories. In all aspects of their day to day operations, from detailing custom orders to over-the-phone customer service, the team strive to go the extra mile to cater to the wishes and desires of their ever-expanding and diverse customer base.

The company prides itself on its accessibility and ever-evolving product range, the addition of Blue Pearl Granite being further proof of their devotion to the funeral trade. Established in 2005, Jet Stone Ltd. is based in Blandsfort, Ballyroan, Co. Laois, and led by a vastly experienced management team, possessing close to 30 years experience across all aspects of the stonework industry.

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Telephone: 057 8730590 Fax: 057 8730520 Email: admin@jetstone.ie Web: www.jetstone.ie FuneralTimes | 21

Advertorial

Grave importance The graveside is the final part of the funeral, but by no means the least important.

It’s the last time the family will see the coffin or casket containing the remains of the deceased. It’s also the site they will return to time and time again, especially in the immediate days following the funeral. This makes it all the more important to have high quality products you can depend on. Here at DJ Mac Neice we have everything you need for the graveside.

Our range of coffin and casket pads is designed specifically for Irish burials. These heavy weight pads come in black and purple, with or without cross motif. They also have elasticated straps to fit them tightly to the coffin or casket so you know that they will stay securely in place.

Whether there is a headstone in place or not, we have the product to suit your needs. Our grave markers are the perfect option for a new grave awaiting a headstone. We offer two types of wood; the traditional oak or paulownia, which is a light weight wood but no less sturdy or long lasting than oak. Both options have a plate big enough to fit an 8x6 breastplate.

Similarly if there is a headstone in place our grave spikes are the perfect way to mark the grave until an inscription can be made on the headstone. Our solid oak grave spikes come in two sizes; 8x6 and 4x2. Both of the sizes have a self-adhesive pad which you can stick your breast plate to, removing the need for hammer and panel pins. The self-adhesive pad also means that a 6x4 rectangle or oval plate can be used on the 4x2 grave spike. We also have the 22 | FuneralTimes

option of providing a white grave marker and spike should you have the unfortunate task of marking the grave of a child.

We stock a large range of breast plates, all of which are suitable to be used on our grave markers and grave spikes. They are also suitable to use on coffins, caskets and ashes caskets. We do a variety of sizes and colours, all of which are available in bordered and black edged styles. There is also the option of the material type you require, metal or plastic, both of which are suitable for engraving. For times when you do need to nail a plate on, all our plates have pre drilled holes to make the job that bit easier. We also stock a range of panel pins and conical nails in a variety of colours and sizes.

DJ Mac Neice continues a long history in the funeral industry during which the 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.

Finest quality grave markers

7HKZ HUK WSH[LZ [V Z\P[ HSS HUK JVM³UZ HUK JHZRL[Z Pads and plates to suit all coffins and caskets

A new delivery to County Kildare Jimmy Bolger and Martin RigneyFuneral from Joe Rigney collects and Son, Kildare with R. Gibney of Gibneys of Oldcastle Directors, hisBennetsbridge, new hearse from Fearghas Quinn Hearse andfrom Limousines. their new hearse Fearghas Quinn Hearse & Limousines

Available in other colours

24 | FuneralTimes

FEARGHAS QUINN HEARSE & LIMOUSINES

Specialist Vehicles T: +44 (0)28 2582 2525 F: +44 (0)28 2582 2299

Now see us on

E: fearghas@fearghasquinn.com www.fearghasquinn.com 13 Garvaghy Road, Portglenone, Co. Antrim, BT44 8LW

BIE News Southern Ireland Division The Irish Division held their first Educational Weekend on 26th and 27th of November 2016. It was a massive success with speakers travelling from the UK, Scotland, and even as far as the US. We would like to give a special thanks to Dr. Marie Cassidy who took the time out of her busy schedule to talk to us about her role as State Pathologist. Already people are putting into practice some tips shared amongst those who attended. Members felt that they left with a little bit more knowledge than they came in with, because of a very interactive question and answers session. We believe as a Division that this is the way forward and we are excited about the up coming events that will be held throughout the coming year. We would like to extend a very warm welcome to members old and new to support our newly elected committee and also newly formed Educational Committee.

Cyril Gantley  (Irish Division)

Chairman

Receiving their CPD Certificates from the Educational Weekend in November 2016

Friends from the UK division receiving their CPD Certificates 26 | FuneralTimes

Patrice Browne being presented with the Perpetual Cup from Ann Shepherd

BIE Irish Division 1st Annual Education Weekend

Andrew Shepherd and Eugene Fitzgerald on the Shepherds Mortuary Supplies stand

Pat McCann, Eco Legacy

Frank Harron, Trade embalmer

Chris Williams, Blake Emergency Services

Attendees at the BIE Irish Division First Annual Educational Weekend FuneralTimes | 27

Kieran Hayes, Electronic Engineer at Boston Scientific

Ben Whitworth, The Dodge Company

Ross Corney, William Purves Embalming Academy

Dr. Marie Cassidy, State Pathologist

Northern Ireland Division The Annual General Meeting and 1st Divisional Meeting of 2017 was held recently at Ravenhill Funeral Services, Belfast.

The Division were delighted to welcome National President Gwen Schofield and her husband Andrew to the meeting. A healthy attendance of Members were present on the evening and it was very encouraging to have so many Embalming Students attend also.

Election of Officers was undertaken for the ensuing year with Laurence O’Neill being installed as Chairman for 2017. The National President addressed Members, commending the Division for the very encouraging attendance. Gwen invited Members to attend the AGM in Harrogate (21st – 23rd April 2017) and provided full details of the planned programme for the weekend.

The AGM was followed by the 1st Meeting of 2017. Dates and venues were confirmed for forthcoming meetings and suggestions for education accepted. The next meeting is scheduled for 26th April 2017 in McBratney’s Funeral Home, Bangor.

The Division also look forward to a Joint Meeting with colleagues from the Irish Division. Members expressed the positive aspects of such an arrangement in sharing education sessions and networking with other professional colleagues and wish 28 | FuneralTimes

Chairman, Laurence O’Neill with National President Gwen Schofield the Irish Division every success for the forthcoming year.

The Division wish to thank Ravenhill Funeral Services for their hospitality on the evening in providing their premises and a very generous supper for Members. The Division also wish to thank the team at Funeral Times for their ongoing support for our Institute.

List of BIE Officers and appointed representatives for 2016/2017 National President: Gwen Schofield Imm. Past President: Mr Craig Caldwell (North American Division) 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 Chairman Mr.Cyril Gantley MBIE 336 Kildare Road, Crumlin, Dublin 12 Mobile:00353 857671582 cyril.gantley@mortuary-science.ie Vice Chairman Mr.Shane Casey MBIE Gortnabinna, Ballingeary, Macroom, Co.Cork.

Mobile: 00353 860744117 info@caseyfunerals.ie Secretary Susan Moran MBIE Maydown House, Aughraboura, Athy, Co.Kildare.

Mobile: 00353 860619500 moransfuneralservices@gmail.com National Council Rep Mr.John Hawe MBIE 12 Meadow Vale, Smith’s Road, Charleville, Co.Cork Mobile: 00353 876390087 jmhawe@eircom.net 2nd National Council Rep and Educational Rep Pamela Murphy MBIE 14 Parknasillogue Court, Enniskerry, Co.Wicklow Mobile:00353 857415421

NORTHERN IRELAND DIVISION Chairman Laurence O'Neill 98 Stewartstown Road Belfast BT11 9JP Tele: 028 90 620099 Email: oneill8210@hotmail.com Treasurer Andrew McMullan MBIE 22 High Street, Ballymoney, Co. Antrim BT53 6AQ Andrew@mcmullanfuneral.com 1st National Council Representative Ellison Sloan MBIE Telephone: 02838 336175 poots@fsni.info 2nd National Council Representative Laurence O'Neill 98 Stewartstown Road Belfast BT11 9JP Tele: 028 90 620099 Email: oneill8210@hotmail.com 1st National Educational Committee Representative Pat Harley MBIE 67 Creggan Road, Londonderry BT48 9DA Mobile: 077128 99137

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Treasurer Mrs Anna O’Reilly MBIE Church Street, Newmarket, Co.Cork Tel:02960142 annaoreilly4@hotmail.com

FuneralTimes | 29

A punster and a resurrection

By Mattie Lennon

Recently I got caught beside a punster at a funeral. I wouldn’t mind if the puns were any good. But he started coming up with a quick-fire barrage of stupid lines like; “Hear about those new ‘big box’ cemeteries? It’s one-stop coffin!”

“Overweight people tend to have a problem with cemeteries: they suffer from coffin fits.”

“Gravediggers are overweight due to their cemetery lifestyle.”

“Which embalming fluid works best?

Each mortician should formalin his own opinion. “ Luckily enough a local wit shut him up with, “What should you do with a punster who’s dying and suffering miserably? Take him off laugh support.”

Seriously though, did you hear about the Wicklow sheep-farmer’s funeral? The best part was the ewelogy.

Enough of that. Some years ago Professor Brendan Kennelly wrote a poem, The Resurrection of Kate Finucane. On Sunday 23rd October last it was read to a packed house at the Abbey Theatre at a show to celebrate Professor Kennelly’s 80th birthday. As 498 people, including President Michael D. Higgins (who had 30 | FuneralTimes

written a poem titled, “When the Muse Visits”, for Brendan), listened in awe, I wondered how much poetic licence was used by the great Kerry poet. So I checked with that great and multitalented Listowel man Billy Keane, son of the late John B. “I’m glad you asked me that,” says Billy, ” When Brendan Kennelly wrote that poem I asked my father if it was fact or fiction.” “What did he tell you?” said I. “I’ll tell you what he told me” says Billy, “I’ll give it to you verbatim,‘ Billy boy,’ says he, ‘Kate Finucane was ailing for some weeks, and finally she gave a great sigh, turned over in the bed and passed away. Doctor and priest were sent for and both pronounced her dead. She was dressed and laid out by a relation of hers, who was reputed to be as old as the hills.

Since Kate lived alone there was nobody to tidy up or receive visitors except the old crone who dressed her. Kate lay there looking content and relaxed, but dead as a doornail. The evening she was to be taken to the chapel saw the house filled with neighbours and several relations, who had come all the way from Ennistymon in the county of Clare.

What happened next is now a chapter

of a local history in not alone Asdee and Ballylongford but from the firesides in Dirra Bog to the woods of Gurtenard.

And from Ballygrennan, on the hill, to Ballybunion strand. There was no-one there to make the tea for the Ennistymon relations except a band of young girls, who did nothing but giggle and ogle the young men.

Suddenly Kate Finucane sat up on the bed, rubbed her eyes but never said a word. Everybody was astonished and none dared move. They were rooted to where they sat and stood. “Ochone� said Kate Finucane, and she rose from the bed. “Oh!� she moaned when she saw the Clare crowd with no one to wet the tea for them.

Kate went to the hearth and took the kettle from the hob. She rinsed out the teapot and found the tea canister. She made a ring of amber coals and thereon she placed the teapot to give the tea a chance to draw. She went to the dresser and laid the table with cups, saucers,

side-plates and cutlery. She produced a loaf of bread and a pound of butter and cut several slices from the loaf. Then she nodded civilly in the direction of the Ennistymon relations, indicating that they were to sit down. There was no word. She simply heaved a great sigh and returned to the bed, where she stretched herself out and folded her hands, not forgetting to entwine her beads about her fingers.

There was a maternity nurse present at the wake and she was requested to examine Kate to see if she was alive or dead. She did as she was asked and she pronounced Kate Finucane to be dead without any doubt whatsoever’ “. “There you have it� says Billy, “My father told me that and he wouldn’t lie�.   And of course he wouldn’t!

And now something for your bucket list.

Here’s a link to “11 Graveyards to Visit in Ireland Before You Die.� (Well, you won’t be visiting many after you die.); www.dailyedge.ie/graveyards-2080258May2015/

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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

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NAFD News NAFD backs the introduction of independent regulation to the funeral planning market

I

n December, a Private Members Bill, brought by Neil Gray MP called for prepaid funeral plans to be bound by the same rules as other financial services. The Bill was given its first reading on Wednesday 14 December and, in response, the National Association of Funeral Directors confirmed that it would welcome greater oversight of the funeral planning market.

The Chief Executive of the National Association of Funeral Directors, Mandie Lavin, said: “The National Association of Funeral Directors would welcome the introduction of independent regulation to the funeral planning market. Taking out a funeral plan can be a very important, comforting and practical step for many people, ensuring funds are set aside to cover the eventual costs of their funeral. At a time when Britons are not setting aside enough savings

to cover expenses they are likely to encounter during life, let alone when they die, putting a funeral plan in place has perhaps never been more important.

“At present some funeral planning companies volunteer to self-regulate by registering with the Funeral Planning Authority and there are many high quality, well-run funeral plans available to the public. However, not all funeral planning companies volunteer to self-regulate by registering with the FPA, leaving the public at greater risk of falling victim to less scrupulous providers. The NAFD would like to see the FCA take a greater interest in the regulation of the funeral plan market and would be keen to work with the FCA to ensure that any potential regulation was effective and proportionate to the product, whilst providing better protection for consumers.”

NAFD welcomes Kirsti Tomkinson as NFE Business Manager The National Funeral Exhibition 2017 is now only a few months away.

The exhibition, which takes place at Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire on 9 -11 June, is not only the only major funeral exhibition in the UK but is rated as one of the most important events of its kind worldwide – with over 200 companies exhibiting in 2015.

Having completed the full business transfer from Leisure Expo Ltd, the NAFD has appointed Kirsti Tomkinson as Business Manager to take on the running of the show.

The NAFD is busy contacting all exhibitors to reaffirm their requirements, to complete the relevant documentation and to set in train the arrangements for the biggest and best funeral exhibition yet.

Both halls of the show are well on their way to being full, with exhibitors planning a fantastic range of products and services for the funeral industry, with their usual creativity and professionalism.

Make sure you visit the show this year. It’s the perfect place to catch up with friends and colleagues, check out new products and services and hear from industry thought leaders. If you have young children, please bring them along on the Sunday for a family day out – the exhibitors always have plenty of goodies in store for them to take away.

Visit www.nationalfuneralexhibition.co.uk for more information on features and events during the show.

FuneralTimes | 35

NAFD graduates celebrate their achievements

E

arly in December, graduates of the NAFD’s Diploma in Funeral Arranging and Administration and Diploma in Funeral Directing, as well as those funeral directors training to be tutors that had completed their Certificate in Education and Training, collected their awards at a ceremony held at Birmingham City University.

The graduates and their families were welcomed to the event by NAFD CEO Mandie Lavin and President Jeremy Field. Robert Pargetter represented the NAFD Board of Examiners, on behalf of chairman Keith Peacock and, having congratulated the graduates and praised the work of the tutors, he turned his attention to his fellow examiners: “For an examiner team that is solely voluntary, being able to provide the assessments in March and September can sometimes be extremely challenging.

The time and effort they give in order to provide the two assessment dates each year is testament to their dedication to maintain the quality of funeral arrangers and funeral directors that pass through our system. Today makes it all worthwhile.”

Perfect Choice Funeral Plans and SEIB Insurance Brokers were delighted to jointly sponsor the awards ceremony.

Chris Clark, from Perfect Choice, added: “We are delighted to support the awards ceremony and would like to express our congratulations to all students who have worked hard to achieve the Diploma and Certificate in Education and Training. We are always keen to assist in the raising of standards across the industry and along with SEIB Insurance Brokers, we wish all students an enjoyable day celebrating their success.”

The NAFD represents members in Government round-table on funeral affordability Before Christmas, Paul Cuthell, of central Scotland-based funeral directors Thomas Cuthell & Sons and a representative of the NAFD in Scotland, made a presentation to representatives of the Working Group on Funeral Poverty in Scotland - chaired by Angela Constance, Cabinet Secretary for Communities, Social Security & Equalities - at which he laid out the Association’s vision for the reform of the funeral payment scheme.

During one of a series of round-table events to discuss funeral poverty in relation to social security reforms being assessed under new devolution powers, the NAFD told the Minister that the current system was overcomplicated, archaic and left the public in a state of confusion at their most vulnerable time.

His representations were made after consultation and agreement with the Society of Allied & Independent Funeral Directors (SAIF) to ensure the funeral profession spoke to the Scottish Government with a unified voice. It 36 | FuneralTimes

highlighted, again, how the NAFD is working closely with Government to help shape policy and protect the interests of its members and the bereaved. The NAFD is campaigning for changes to bereavement benefits in both Holyrood and Westminster, and it is likely that Ministers in England will watch what happens in Scotland very closely. As a devolved issue, a new bereavement benefits system or Scottish funeral bond will be created from this process which is likely to inform any future review of the Social Fund funeral payment in Westminster.

The Association once more underlined its call for pre-eligibility checks to be available so that people have a clear indication as to whether they would qualify for a funeral payment, which would not only help protect funeral directors from incurring bad debt but also bereaved families so they know where they stand and what funeral they can afford.

NAFD briefs media on the funeral funding gap caused by reluctance to save As members of the profession know only too well, very few people in the UK put any plans in place for their funeral, no matter how simple their wishes might be. A result of this reluctance to plan ahead for the inevitable, as Royal London’s Funeral Cost Index revealed before Christmas, is that an increasing number of people are having to borrow money to pay for a funeral, despite the fact that funeral firms are holding, and in some cases reducing, their prices.

M

andie Lavin, Chief Executive Officer of the NAFD told journalists: “It was concerning to discover, from the Money Advice Service, that more than 40% of working age Britons have less than £100 in savings to cover any unexpected expense in life, let alone a funeral – Britons have stopped putting aside money for a ‘rainy day’. The propensity to save was not necessarily related to income levels with a greater proportion (23%) of those surveyed who earned £13,500 or less having £1,000 or more saved.

“Equally worrying was news from research

by YouGov2 which revealed that, for almost one in five British adults, there was absolutely nothing that would prompt them to think ahead to their own funeral.

“Even the simplest, direct cremation would still incur the standard council cremation fee (UK average £700), doctors’ fees (£164) and the cost of both a coffin and the collection and transfer of the body to the crematorium. This means that with millions of Britons, even those on larger incomes, having less than £100 in the bank it’s clear that a significant proportion of British adults will find themselves having to borrow money in the future to cover the costs of a funeral of a loved one.

“It is, therefore, perhaps no surprise that increasing numbers of people are putting the cost of a funeral on a credit card, using their overdraft or taking out a loan. Arguably it’s no different to what we do for many other expenses in life – from sofas and holidays to

Mandie Lavin, NAFD Chief Executive Officer buying a new boiler – sometimes even if we do have savings; so why not funerals?

“It’s also important to note that a significant number within the 15% of people in Royal London’s figures that said they did not have savings to cover the cost of a funeral, is the 10-12% of Britons on the lowest incomes for whom any unplanned expense in life is simply beyond their means. Sadly, the Government’s existing bereavement benefit, the Social Fund funeral payment, is failing to support those who need it most with an overly complex application process, less than 50% success rate for applicants and a payment to cover the funeral costs that has remained unchanged, at £700, for more than thirteen years.”

FuneralTimes | 37

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PEAI News: A Great Start for 2017 This year the Professional Embalmers’ Association of Ireland kick starts the year with the new face of its official website www. professionalembalmers.ie. Now everyone within both the industry and the public can get to know about their professional embalmers from any chosen county. We are also looking forward to an even more user-friendly format, which will be launched later this year.

Our new website is regularly updated with the most current news within the industry. We aim to deliver timely and accurate information to all our members and to everyone within the industry. Our Facebook page also offers an easy point of contact. PEAI is an inclusive organisation serving the best interests of the deceased and the bereaved, the health and safety and continuous improvement of its members, and the funeral service sector as a whole.

PEAI welcomes its newest members

Christopher Ginty (Mayo)

Natasha Shanks (Dublin)

Stephen Connolly (Derry)

PEAI 2017

Following a very successful year, we are proud to reaffirm our commitments to Families, Care of the Deceased, the Public, the Government and the Association.

“Every member of the PEAI has a moral commitment to promote, participate and support the Professional Embalmers’ Association of Ireland in its mission to help all members enhance the quality of the embalming service to families.”

The Professional Embalmers’ Association of Ireland are leaders and standard bearers in the embalming practice, both within Ireland and beyond. We wish to share our skills and knowledge to other embalming practitioners and extend it to everyone working in areas where death and funeral rituals and traditions impact people’s lives. We invest a lot of effort into research and communication in order to bring our members the most recent advancements and issues arising within the industry, not only in Ireland, but also around Europe and the U.S. This new year, we therefore wish to encourage all our members and interested individuals to avail of this opportunity to be a part of the PEAI’s pursuit to continuous education and standardisation of professional embalming practice.

If you wish to receive information in relation to PEAI membership and other related enquiries, please visit our website: www.professionalembalmers.ie or email us at info@professionalembalmers.ie.

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NOW IS THE TIME !

Noted Environmental Health Officer, Adrian Byrne has generously shared with Funeral Times an article written by himself for the EHAI Handbook 2016. Titled ‘Grave Issues’, the piece covers the varying attitudes, awareness, risks and safeguards regarding infectious disease and occupational health amongst funeral directors, and those associated, within Ireland.

Grave issues

Knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding infectious disease and occupational health in funeral directing in Ireland.

By Adrian Byrne, Environmental Health Officer, Dublin Mid-Leinster ABSTRACT How the deceased are handled and commemorated is deeply rooted in all religions and societies. Furthermore, respect for the dead has always been an integral part of Irish culture and heritage. On average, nearly 29,000 people die in the Republic of Ireland each year and for each death the process through burial or cremation generally takes 2-4 days. During this period the body can be handled by a number of persons which include emergency workers, health workers, Gardai/Police, pathology staff, mortuary staff and funeral directing workers. Furthermore, loved ones can also handle and view the body.

Consequently, the handling of a deceased person involves a number of different individuals and agencies.

The process of disposing of a deceased body, whether with or without an infectious disease, is inevitably carried out by a Funeral Director. The Irish Funeral Industry comprises of 600 Funeral Directors with less than 100 of these being full-time. There are no barriers to entry and no licensing (Irish Hospice Foundation, 2011). This is a considerable business that affects public and environmental health. Research and study on funeral directing in Ireland indicates far-reaching occupational health concerns among these professional groups.

Normal circumstances should allow the deceased person to be quickly handled, embalmed, cremated or buried with 44 | FuneralTimes

minimal health risks to those who handle and view them. However, hazards still exist when handling deceased persons.

Those handling deceased persons face an array of health and safety hazards, including occupationally acquired infectious diseases from exposure to biological agents (Creely.K.S, 2004).

The Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC), Ireland’s specialist agency for the surveillance of communicable diseases, published a document titled; ‘Guidelines for the Management of Deceased Individuals Harbouring Infectious Disease’ (Health Protection Surveillance Centre, 2013). It offered guidelines, developed best practice and made recommendations primarily aimed at Funeral Directing. Research was undertaken to assess the knowledge, attitudes, values, and beliefs of Irish funeral industry workers towards their occupational hazards and infectious disease controls, in particular their degree of compliance with the HPSC guideline document.

SURVEY METHODOLOGY An electronic questionnaire was sent to the following two professions concerned with disposal of the deceased in Ireland: Funeral Directors and Embalmers. The same questionnaire was also used in a small number of face-to-face interviews within the above groups. The sample specifically analysed responses from members of the

Irish Association of Funeral Directors (IAFD) and the two main embalming industry organisations: the British Institute of Embalmers (BIE (Irish section)) and Professional Embalmers Association of Ireland (PEAI).

INITIAL COMMENT ON SURVEY DATA: VARYING INDUSTRY ATTITUDES The response rate to the study was only 12.4% and did not compare favourably to previous studies of Funeral Directors and Embalmers. The reason for this likely included the protracted nature and detail of the survey questionnaire. Added to this, general members, including committee members of the three groups surveyed, indicated in free conversations, that responses would be low because members felt the study would reveal poor practices and were simply unwilling to acknowledge or expose these. Other research weakness was attributed by the IAFD participants being drawn from selected members rather than a selection of all Funeral Directors in Ireland and may reflect those who have higher participation in the industry and are more likely to follow accepted standards.

The BIE (Irish section) has taken part in previous studies but the PEAI is another embalming group that has a significant presence in embalming services in Ireland.

The study showed that Embalmers have formal qualifications and that this is a pre-requisite of being a member of their representative groups. Members of the IAFD are not required as part of their membership criteria to acquire their

industry specific accredited qualifications (IAFD, 2014) creating a possible culture of non-conformance to standards and above all creating a gap in knowledge. However, some IAFD members are trained Embalmers.

In addition, there was limited or no hazard notification from Mortuaries to allow Funeral Directors/Embalmers to identify the level of control required at the given time of receiving a body. These lack of control measures also extended to respondents: • Not receiving recommended vaccinations relating to their occupational risk exposures • Not routinely using body bags to transport deceased persons with confirmed infection Moreover, most respondents had not established a sharps/splash injury emergency policy and contingency plans; spillage kits were not routinely stocked in premises and vehicles; and selection and use of certain disinfectants were ineffective or less than optimally effective (Health and Safety Executive, 2003).

ASSESSING RISKS/ CONTROLLING HAZARDS Despite the existence of formal qualifications by all group members, there remains a gap in knowledge relating to their obligation under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2005 and its relationship to other regulations and their amendments (Government of Ireland, 2005).

Survey responses indicated gaps in awareness of Health Safety requirements, indicated by the following: • Funeral Directors and Embalmers using one category of healthcare waste disposal FuneralTimes | 45

• • • •

•

method for solid waste regardless of its infection status (Health Service Executive, 2010) Risk assessments not being undertaken, consequently resulting in limited measures to eliminate or mitigate hazards Control measures of exposure to biological agents were not being followed and no health surveillance applied to workers Virtually no risk assessment granted to family members by Funeral Directors when laying out their loved ones Only sporadic implementation of HSE Notification of Death Form (as recommended in HPSC guidelines), and as a result the infection status of the deceased not being properly assessed when risk assessing for splash/stick incidences A void in risk communication and impacts on the effectiveness of any sharps/splash injury emergency policy and contingency plan (Health Protection Surveillance Centre, 2012)

THE MORTUARY TECHNICIANS POSITION: NOTIFICATION VERSUS CONFIDENTIALITY It should be noted that some Mortuary Technicians offer a limited hazard notification to Funeral Directors. Mortuary Technicians have balanced this against the deceased’s medical confidentially, and argue that limited hazard notification takes precedence over this, but at the same time consider Standard Precautions as mitigating risk of infection to handlers.

To compound this issue, in a Mortuary Technician’s absence, Hospital Porters release remains but do not have access to deceased person’s medical records, and therefore are unable to communicate any infection status to Funeral Directors/ Embalmers. Summarily, the combination of above survey findings provided support that a disjointed risk communication dynamic exists with limited or no clear risk communication protocols in existence.

ISSUES IN EMBALMING LOCATIONS Respondents indicated that embalming is often carried out at the deceased’s home/ 46 | FuneralTimes

domestic premises, highlighting risks associated with this practice. Respondents also indicated that embalming is also carried out in Hospital Mortuaries by Mortuary staff. There is some discourse from Embalmers as to whether Mortuary staff undertaking this service are qualified.

However, Mortuary Technicians expressed that embalming is carried out by qualified Embalmers with the agreement of the Hospital. BIE members in particular indicated that hospitals carrying out embalming services created challenges when Funeral Directors and Embalmers attended Mortuaries to collect remains. They indicated this was manifested by exerting influence on Funeral Directors to use their embalming services or otherwise experience delays in release of deceased persons. In addition, Embalmers have expressed that remains returned from Mortuaries that have undergone post-mortem examinations are released to Funeral Directors/Embalmers in an unsuitable state and pose an infection risk (Tallon. G, 2014).

Deficiencies in facilities and building accommodation in funeral premises were indicated by Embalmers and included: • Inadequate ventilation; lack of shower facilities • Wall surfaces not washable, or made of durable, easily-cleaned material; no automated washer disinfector available • No separate changing facilities; no appropriate laundering facilities; inappropriate clinical waste facilities • Floor surfaces not washable or made of durable material that is easy to clean and disinfect • Work top surfaces not washable or made of durable material that is easy to clean and disinfect; no dedicated wash sink for washing embalming utensils; no cleaning or sanitising facilities; no segregation between embalming room and other areas The study findings suggest that Funeral Directors are not implementing best practices as prescribed in the 2013 HPSC guidance document. Indeed, respondent feedback indicates Funeral Director awareness of the guidelines as being perceptibly lower than that of other

groups. The IAFD continues to assert that all wall and floor surfaces permit good hygiene practice in their funeral directing premises. The implication appears to be that individually diligent funeral directors certainly do resource their premises well, but that the association members as a whole lack a coherent strategy in this regard.

AWARENESS VERSUS PROMOTION Previous studies indicated persons in the funeral industry calling for national guidelines on infectious disease, but when available only about 50% of respondents refered to it. This indicated that industry representative organisations, training providers, health services and regulatory occupational health bodies were not acknowledging its presence or not promoting its existence, despite it being drafted as a national guideline document on infectious disease for the Irish Funeral Directing industry.

In the United Kingdom (UK), guidelines relating to health and safety in funeral directing are available freely, published by the National Health Service (NHS), local authorities and the Health and Safety Executive (Health and Safety Executive, 2005). Apart from the HPSC guidelines document (2013), such guidelines are not readily available in Ireland. This confirms a limited acknowledgement from vested parties of the infection risks and occupational challenges faced by the Irish funeral industry.

FURTHER ISSUES: CHEMICAL HAZARDS Other occupational hazards exist, and

these were identified as being perceived as less important, and centred on the use of chemicals and manual handling. These have manifested in not adhering to use of chemicals legislation including codes of practice, associate regulations and amendments, and consequently no risk assessments being undertaken – thereupon resulting in limited or no control measures to eliminate or mitigate hazards (Irish Statute Book, 2011).

This has been indicated despite all IAFD members specifying that they have a written Health and Safety Policy. Also, respondents indicated limited conformance with the Biocides Directive. In addition, not all death care workers have received manual handling training (Health and Safety Authority, 2013). Funeral Directors are not aware of their obligations to carry out occupational risk assessments when providing exhumation services (Cork County Council, 2012).

The study identified potential pollution effects from embalming chemical and associated waste to drain, and consequently suggests additional research on this subject (US. EPA, 2010). In addition, enzyme traps are not routinely used in funeral directing businesses. Standard Operating Procedures (SOP’s) were identified by some groups, but were not established in all groups surveyed.

Contaminated workwear is usually laundered using a domestic-type washing machine. Manual cleaning methods are universally undertaken by embalmers, and use of automated washer disinfectors is rare in the field despite being recommended by the HPSC guidelines document (2013).

FuneralTimes | 47

All IAFD members use International Air Transport Association (IATA) guidelines on the transport of human remains.

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS There is a strong desire on the part of Funeral Directors and Embalmers to be advised of infection risk, or risk from hazard group biological agents, when receiving remains from a Mortuary. They favour the placement of an identification tag on the deceased person’s toe to identify infection status without being patient diagnoses specific.

Respondents from all groups also favour regulation of their industry, but have some concerns that the cost of registration levies to the Funeral Director/Embalming regulator could be passed onto the customer/consumer.

First and foremost, the promotion and use of the 2013 HPSC guidance document in infection control must be undertaken by groups and stakeholders in funeral directing and embalming. The industry's embalming organizations must undertake this themselves, and a regulatory model should also be considered.

The following specific recommendations were prescribed in the research paper, and include: • More undertaking towards Health and Safety Legislation by all groups in funeral directing and embalming • Stronger commitment by Embalmers to occupational safety with regard to biological agents • Additional understanding and awareness

•

•

•

•

•

•

• •

of infectious disease legislation by all groups involved in funeral directing Acknowledgement of presence of embalming organisations in Ireland, and determination of their accreditation in training Acknowledge the presence of occupational risks in funeral directing by all vested parties including local authorities, and especially health services and the regulatory occupation health authority, culminating in the promotion of occupational safety within this industry Inclusion of embalming representative/ training groups in any consultation process when drafting any future funeral directing infectious disease and occupational health guidelines Urgent reforms should be implemented in risk communication procedures in funeral directing, especially when deceased persons are released from Mortuaries to funeral Directors/Embalmers Where additional risk communication protocols cannot be invoked, burial/ cremation should be delayed until release of Death Certificate to permit informed risk assessment by Funeral Directors/ Embalmers HSE official Notification of the Death Form should be revised and re-drafted to include indications of possible routes of infection based on United Kingdom’s ‘Infection Notification Sheet’ Cessation of embalming in domestic premises (deceased’s home) Ensure design of premises and its significance to health and safety and

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•

• • • • • • • • • • •

containment measures of infectious agents meets specifications in HPSC guidelines document (2013) Where embalming is undertaken in hospital mortuaries, develop protocols based on best practice and incorporate this service into the Hospital health service framework Establish routine use of Body Bags by all groups in funeral directing and in all circumstances Address all deficiencies commonly found in funeral home premises and embalming rooms Implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in funeral directing and embalming Adherence to all components in Standard Precautions in funeral directing and embalming No embalming and hygienic preparation on persons diagnosed with Hazard Group 4 infection status Re-evaluation of current funeral directing and embalming waste disposal methods, especially for infectious waste Dedicated vehicles for removal of remains without shared rear accommodation for passengers with deceased persons Comprehensive risk assessment offered to families by funeral directors if permitted to lay out their loved one Provision of spillage kits in premises and funeral vehicles Undertaking of compliance in all legislative requirements including occupational safety in use of chemicals Correct selection and use of disinfectants/ sanitisers by Funeral Directors and Embalmers

• Provide laundering facilities or laundering services for contaminated work wear at work premises • Install adequate ventilation in premises and particularly in embalming rooms • Undertake research on liquid waste management in funeral directing • Provision of vaccination for workers handling deceased persons and those potentially harbouring infectious disease • Undertake research on effectiveness of enzyme traps in funeral directing • Assign health surveillance for workers handling deceased persons harbouring infectious disease • All groups working in funeral directing should establish emergency policy and contingency plans • Establish provision for manual handling training for transporting deceased persons to workers handling deceased persons • Ensure occupational safety legislation is adhered to when carrying out exhumations • Compulsory vocational and accredited training by all members of the IAFD • Funeral Directors and Embalmers representative groups should lobby and educate regulatory bodies regarding the benefits of regulation of their industry • Funeral Directors and Embalmers representative groups should lobby health services for better risk communication • Implement funeral directing regulatory authority based on regulation models in the U.S. A full list of references to accompany this article are available in the EHAI 2016 Handbook

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

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Join the association that’s leading the way.

Representing and promoting the interests of 850 independent funeral directors.

SAIF is at the forefront of tackling the big industry issues that matter to you.

As the united voice of independent funeral directors we have led the way in setting the highest standards of professionalism and conduct within the industry. By joining SAIF you too can demonstrate that you uphold this same commitment.

For over 25 years SAIF has been promoting and protecting the interests and values of independent funeral directors. Supporting our members is at the heart of everything we do, listening, responding and engaging to secure your independent future.

Join SAIF now: visit saif.org.uk or call us on 0345 230 6777 or 01279 726 777

SAIF NEWS ... SAIF NEWS ...

New SAIF logo S

AIF has refreshed its logo and are pleased to launch the new clean, crisp logo for use by members and the media.

Whilst many members will have stationery and marketing materials with the old logo, this will still be recognised and acknowledged. The new logo is being phased in over the next few years so please don’t worry. For more information on use of the new logo, together with downloadable copies of the relevant logo, please visit the members’ area of the SAIF website.

Department of Communities The Northern Ireland Department of Communities (equivalent of Westminster’s Department for Work and Pensions) kindly hosted SAIF’s Paul Allcock and Terry Tennens recent visit to Ireland. The DWP is keen for online pricing by funeral homes so that clients can understand the breakdown of fees and third-party costs.

SAIF explained that it fully supported

the first Fair Funerals Pledge, and 58% of pledges had been made by SAIF members.

However, we explained that while many members do include their pricing online, as Paul Allcock has done since 2000, there are many who do not have a website.

SAIF is developing a web project to support smaller members with their digital presence, and so online pricing is not yet mandatory.

SAIF AGM Banquet weekend 24th – 26th March 2017 The Old Swan Hotel in Harrogate

T

he SAIF annual Banquet weekend is set for the weekend of 24th – 26th March at The Old Swan Hotel in Harrogate. The SAIF event of the year starts with our Friday afternoon guest speaker Gordon Reid. Gordon is Paralympic Wimbledon champion, gold medallist for wheelchair singles and the silver in the wheelchair doubles.

Born in Scotland, Gordon was a keen tennis player. The week before his 13th birthday he was struck down with a crippling illness that left him paralysed from the waist down. Being a strong, defiant young man, his courage pushed him to be FuneralTimes | 51

Gordon Reid, the best he could, only Paralympic gold this time in a wheelchair. medallist will be Come along to the SAIF a guest speaker weekend and hear the at the event story of this young man’s fight and determination.

Friday evening guests will be entertained by a Murder Mystery evening and Saturday morning will see the usual business side of things as the Annual General Meeting starts Saturday’s events.

Following the AGM there will be guest speakers on topical business-related subjects.

Saturday afternoon guests will be wined and dined, literally, at the Wine and Cheese tasting event. Saturday evening of course is the Banquet and guests are invited to dance the night away to the fabulous ‘Might Persuaders’. Sunday morning is the inauguration of the Officers and as it is Mothering Sunday a surprise may well be in store for a few mums.

For a booking form and more information please either contact: linda@saif.org.uk or go onto the SAIF website: www.saif.org.uk

A Fond Farewell to Kevin Heath

Coleman Milne's National Sales Manager Graham Clow and Kevin Heath on Kevin’s last day at the office

A

fter over 27 years’ service Kevin Heath, Coleman Milne’s Area Sales Manager for the Midlands, has retired. Kevin is the longest serving salesman in the history of Coleman Milne.

He has been a key member of the Sales team since 1989 and is a key figure in the funeral market.

During his tenure, Kevin built up a vast base of loyal and longstanding customers, some of whom have continually bought their ceremonial vehicles from Kevin for over 27 years. Kevin is looking forward to dedicating more time to restoring his Mini Cooper S. All at Coleman Milne wish him a very happy and long retirement.

52 | FuneralTimes

tailor-made solutions to the funeral trade

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Feedback makes it all worthwhile ...

A

By Padraic Cawley

s I look back over the diary for 2016, I see how much more popular civil funerals have become year on year.

Any Funeral Service that I design and lead is written all around one person.

That person gets centre stage with their life story. They’re in the spotlight too for the very last time. We go to a funeral to say our final goodbyes to someone who’s mattered to us.

I’m always conscious of how the ceremony experience will ripple on for everyone long after the day has drawn to a close. It’s not just about the words used or how they’re delivered.

It’s about how everyone is made to feel part of what’s happening and how they understand their own role in the celebration. Holding space for everyone to make those connections during the ceremony is a big part of what I do – and it always will be.

While we strive to improve our service to families, one of the greatest confidence boosters for me is the feedback that I receive after a service.

Feedback comes in all shapes and sizes for me - texts, cards, flowers, emails ... and even the traditional telephone calls that seem a thing from the past for so many businesses, regularly find their way to me. I’m always humbled and often overwhelmed by what I read and it happened again for me this weekend.

I recently led a funeral service for a gentleman who, although elderly, died very suddenly and his family were unsure about the idea of a non religious service, how they could give their father a meaningful and dignified funeral, and to remember all the joy that he brought

54 | FuneralTimes

into their lives. Our civil funeral ceremony did just that.

Here’s an extract from the email I received today from the gentleman’s daughter. The words warmed my heart inside out.

“I can’t say enough about you and the way you handled what was a very sudden and unexpected loss of my dad.

You showed great empathy, particularly to my mam, and were very good at listening, getting an overall sense of my dad, and making suggestions at the appropriate time.

Your contact following the initial meeting ensured that all was correct and appropriate and you even checked out particular music for us.

A number of people at the funeral have since expressed how well you facilitated the service and that ‘they would now think about it for themselves’!

I have been inundated with calls to say how impressed people were. I think you may have set a trend, so retirement could be a long way off for you! Indeed many of them thought you knew my dad personally.

I can’t thank you enough for the way you managed everything and indeed your follow up phone call to me well after the funeral” My faith is restored...

I’m so grateful when individuals, couples and families take the time to offer their words of feedback during such a difficult time and my thoughts are always with them.

And who knows about retirement? But then again, do any of us fully retire in the truest sense of the word?!

CIVIL FUNERAL CEREMONIES

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

Padraic Cawley MICF Civil Funeral Celebrant

087 267 6050

padraic@padraiccawley.ie www.padraiccawley.ie

Setting the national standard

INSTITUTE OF

CIVILFUNERALS FUNERALS CIVIL

INSTITUTE OF

Crowdfunded funerals on the rise R

ecent figures released by online fundraising platform JustGiving reveal that just over 2,000 funeral services were funded as a direct result of donations raised through it's website between January and September 2016, representing a 400% increase year on year.

Charles Wells, chief operations officer for JustGiving, believes that, “Thinking about the costs of a funeral is the last thing a grieving family wants to do but with the cost of funerals rising JustGiving has seen increasing numbers of people turning to crowdfunding to help say farewell to their loved ones.

JustGiving ultimately managed to raise

an average of ÂŁ1,300 towards funeral costs throughout 2016. Total donations Charles Wells, chief operations amassed an officer for JustGiving impressive 52,630, compared with 9,089 during the same months in the previous year.

When more funding is raised than required to pay for a funeral the excess is typically donated to a charity.

FuneralTimes | 55

Eulogica unveils new features E

ulogica’s bespoke funeral software can trace it’s roots back almost 20 years, and in that time it has been under constant development and improvement. At it’s heart, of course, is the bespoke concept – software that can be tailored to the needs of the individual business rather than being a prescriptive, off the shelf solution – this flexibility is enhanced by many additional features that have been added to the system over the years.

Highlighted below are two features that have been added during 2016.

The core of the system is funeral administration – entering funeral details, producing documents for the family, third parties and internal processes, building up the estimate and invoice, automatically completing the daily schedule, and more.

Of course, by entering these details into a centralised system, one can ensure consistent layout and content in documents, as well as building up a historical record that can be accessed at the click of a mouse.

Visibility code There are many reasons that a particular funeral may need to be highlighted. Perhaps there is something unusual about it, or maybe the client has requested that no information regarding the funeral is to be given out over the phone. Using the new visibility code feature, users can configure their own highlight reasons and colours. Shown here is a funeral with a PRIVATE code selected, and a view of the funeral list with the highlight colour visible.

Stock management The addition of stock management to Eulogica means that stock of items such as coffins, urns and scatter tubes can easily be monitored. When a product is flagged to be monitored, you can enter initial stock levels as well as adjustments such as deliveries or lost items. When a given item is selected on a funeral, the stock level is automatically reduced by the appropriate number, marked as used on that funeral. If the family change their mind to an alternative item, the new item is taken from stock, and the previous item is shown as returned.

With many more new features, and a major update scheduled for later in the year, 2017 promises to be an exciting year for Eulogica!

56 | FuneralTimes

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Our Crematorium, Facilities and Remembrance Garden are available 7 days a week to accommodate Families and Funeral Directors (no weekend surcharge)

Memorial Memoria aall Keepsakes es We also have a large supply of urns, casks es. and keepsakes.

Lakelands Crematorium, Dublin Rd, Cavan, Co. Cavan Tel: 049 4362200 / mob: 086 2458489 email: info@LakelandsCrematorium.ie www.LakelandsCrematorium.ie

Public perception on cremation has come a long way

Lakelands Crematorium has now been up and running for the past eighteen months and have already made a name for themselves thanks to the professional service they provide to both funeral directors and bereaved families.

When it was announced that Cavan was to have the first crematorium outside a major city, some felt that provincial families would not consider a change from the tradition of burial. Over the past eighteen months however, Lakelands Crematorium have been inundated with positive feedback from families and members of the public who have attended the Crematorium for a service. One thing is for sure: traditional burial is no longer the only option.

Many members of the public who have attended a Cremation service for the first time now feel that cremation may be a suiting, dignified celebration of their life after their passing, or the passing of a loved one. Irish families are also now becoming more aware of the costs involved with a funeral, particularly the cost of purchasing and opening of grave for burial. Cremation offers a comparatively cost effective way of saying goodbye to the one they loved.

In the past, the tradition for Non-Irish nationals after death was the repatriation of the body to their homeland at huge expense.

Especially in rural Ireland, Cremation

was not a popular option which families typically considered prior to the opening of Lakelands.

Now the staff at Lakelands say that the numbers of Non-Irish nationals being cremated has increased significantly and is continuing to increase.

Lakelands Crematorium receive a number of visitors to their premises enquiring about a tour and a brief explanation of the process. Often this follows a glowing recommendation from a family member or friend who had attended a service.

Lakelands Crematorium continue to provide a first class professional service and the team there will co-operate fully with funeral directors and families alike to assist in any way we can. Lakelands Crematorium is open 7 days a week with no surcharge for weekends or bank holidays.

For more information you can contact Declan on (049) 4362200 or mobile 086 2458489. Alternatively you can email info@ lakelandscrematorium.ie or visit the website www.lakelandscrematorium.ie.

FuneralTimes | 59

Down to the woodlands D

own to Earth NI represents Northern Ireland’s first foray into natural woodland burial. Pending successful planning the group have secured a truly special place in the heart of the Lecale landscape of County Down.

The cemetery follows Woodbrook Natural Burial Ground, in Killane, Co. Wexford which opened in 2010 to provide a natural alternative to existing cemeteries and graveyards.

Many cemeteries in Ireland are steeped in local history, seeming to blend seamlessly into the landscape. It is this blend of harmony and nature which Down To Earth NI hope to encapsulate.

In several decades time, the land which will be developed as a woodland burial site will resemble a beautiful forest, as stated online, ‘a natural memorial that is protected in perpetuity’.

In describing their services, the group describe how ‘We have no ideological or religious agenda and are bound together by a desire to do the right thing for people who are going through a loss and to restore land to ecological health. Some of us have a

60 | FuneralTimes

faith (part of the woodland burial site can be consecrated if people wish) others do not…; land should not become poisoned and polluted; funerals should be personalised; the natural aesthetics of a graveyard should convey beauty and tranquility.’

In terms of what is and is not acceptable in the planned woodland surround, Down To Earth offer a series of guidelines, ‘90% of coffins are made from chipboard material with fake plastic handles. Chemicals in the coffins contaminate the land and can leach toxins into streams and lakes. Plastics do not break down naturally. In addition, embalming fluids are currently very toxic and not appropriate although we are actively looking for non-toxic alternatives. We also feel that imported granite surrounds and headstones involve damaging quarrying with miners paid slave wages in many poorer parts of the world.’

For more information on the progress of the development, or for further information, please visit the group online at downtoearthni.com.

Through our own personal experience we received the inspiration to set up Treasured Keepsakes, to give people a wide variety of options upon a loved one’s passing should they choose to keep a lock of hair, cremated remains, a piece of jewellery, a photograph or anything that is a personal reminder of their loved one in a small keepsake, keepsake pendant or urn.

Funeral directors we are currently working with have tailored our service to suit their needs. We have two options of how our service can work for you.

If you wish you can buy our products from us at a wholesale price and sell them directly to your clients.

Alternatively we can offer this service to your clients directly.

We would hope that by recommending our service we will enhance and add value to your business at no extra cost to you.

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

A fitting memorial Many families find that their members are scattered across several countries and indeed continents and when someone dies it can be impossible for everybody to attend the funeral.

Sometimes people just can’t make it back to Ireland or in other cases a funeral will be held abroad and a family will be unable to travel to be there.

A funeral is an opportunity for people to express their loss, grieve together, and support each other through that first very raw period of grief and when this is denied many people feel lost and can find it difficult to come to terms with the death of their loved one.

Recently, Mary Elizabeth Dillon, of Civil Funerals Ireland, was approached by a family whose relative had been buried in Australia. None of the family, who were scattered across Ireland, the UK and Canada, were able to attend but felt they wanted to mark the lady’s passing in some way and to get together to support each other. She suggested a Memorial service, which would give the family the opportunity to gather and have a formal piece, followed by time to spend together reminiscing.

Commenting on the service, Mary Elizabeth said, ‘the beauty of it was that it was not

rushed, the date was set well in advance and the family had time to consider what they wanted to include and did not feel at all under pressure as can happen with a funeral service.’

The service itself contained many of the elements of a funeral service, with favourite music, some poetry, and contributions from the family. Mary Elizabeth led and introduced all the pieces, speaking herself at the beginning and the end.

‘It was a pleasure to work with a family in these circumstances and to have a service unfold which was fitting, and to see the family in a very relaxed setting, coming together and spending time together, which really helped their grieving’, she commented.

Memorial services are commonly held for famous people sometime after the actual funeral service, allowing a wider group of people to gather together. This need not only be the case, as can be seen from the situation outlined above. Although people will go to great lengths to attend a funeral, sometimes circumstances will not allow people to be there and that is when a memorial service can come into its own, providing a time and space for reflection in a relaxed and quiet environment.

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: 0402 91273 / Mobile: 087 957 4476 Email: info@civilfuneralsireland.com 62 | FuneralTimes

Funerals conducted throughout Ireland

H E N R Y PATO N + C o . L t d

­

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With many years of experience in the funeral director business, we are only too familiar with the dangers faced by funeral directors whilst attending a removal from a burial or funeral home. In order to minimise the risks posed to all concerned when dealing with traffic we have put together a range of traffic management products to inform and direct traffic both at removal and interment.

To view the range of traffic management products visit the website on: www.funeraldirectorsolutions.ie or call us (Ray: 086 2623414 or Colm: 087 2623414) to discuss your requirements further.

64 | FuneralTimes

Dr Bill Webster

I will have no regrets I

n the song, “I did it my way”, Frank Sinatra makes the bold statement, “Regrets, I’ve had a few, but then again, too few to mention.”

Most of us would like to say the same as we think of our life, but if we are honest, many would probably admit that we have more regrets than we care to mention. Maybe it is when people realize their mortality that they become aware of the things that are unfinished, unaccomplished or unrealized.

I have noticed a pattern in listening to the stories of people who are dying or who have lost a loved one. Their regrets are more over things they HAVEN’T done than things they HAVE; unhappy that they did not do things when they had the time and opportunity.

Here are some suggestions which, if followed, you will never regret: 1. Set goals and GO for them One of the things people regret most when they get old is that they did not go for what they really wanted to go for in life. Everyone has a dream, but many do little or nothing to make those dreams come true. Whether you want to travel the world, start your own business, or just spend more time with family, there is a simple formula: Plan; Prioritize; Be Passionate.

One of Stephen Covey’s “7 Habits of Successful People” is to “Begin with the goal in mind.” This principle really encapsulates the “Plan, Prioritize, Passion” formula.

Covey gives the illustration of a team that sets out on a trek through the jungle. Every step is a painful process of cutting vines and hacking undergrowth to clear a path for them to proceed. After many days of slow painstaking advance, one group member decides to climb a tree to see where they are.

He comes down with good news and bad news. “The good news is that we are making excellent progress”, he states, “but the bad news is that we have ended up in the wrong jungle!”

How many people set out on life’s journey, make great headway, but sadly later find themselves in the wrong place?

Imagine you are at a funeral. (Never let it be said that my articles don’t stretch your imagination!!) Except this one is different.

This is YOUR funeral you are attending.

And you learn that there are going to be four eulogies: one from a member of your family, one from a friend, one from a colleague and one from a member of the community.

What would you want them to say about you? In other words, what would you want to be remembered for?

To put it another way, at the end of life, what would you like to be able to say: “I’m SO glad I did THAT!” And then ask yourself, what have I done TODAY to INVEST in that goal? If I want to be remembered as a great family person, what have I done lately to earn that tribute? And ask the same question about anything else you would like FuneralTimes | 65

to be remembered for because every day, in whatever we choose to do, we invest in our own eulogy.

We assess what our real priorities should be today by recognizing what you would want to be remembered for tomorrow, because at the end of life, that is what is really important.

2. Invest more time in people than in things

A couple of years ago, I took my family to Disney World. It is not an inexpensive excursion as you probably know. A friend of mine asked how I could afford to do it. I was quite proud of my reply: “How could I afford NOT to?” Long after the money is gone, you are left with memories of that time spent together that will never be forgotten. My grandchildren might say in my eulogy, “Grampa took us to Disney”, and all it cost me was money, which I can’t take with me anyway.

‘I have always taken the attitude that “I would rather make a mistake by saying something than a mistake by not saying something’

Another common regret as people grow older is how they have invested their time. At the end of life, more people say, “I wish I had spent more time with the people I care about,” than lament, “Gee, I wish I had spent more time at the office.” If you love someone, tell them, NOW. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Say thank you to friends that you appreciate and tell them how much you care.

3. Express yourself more constructively

Transparency means openness and honesty, or “the quality of being easily seen through.”

Telling people how you feel is crucial in good relationships, whether it is with your

First you hurt, then you heal Dr. Bill Webster understands grief not just in theory, but also from personal experience. In his book, “First you Hurt, Then you Heal”, Dr. Bill outlines a road map for the grief journey in a series of articles that take us through the process .

He begins with a chapter entitled “I Didn’t Plan for This” that gives people an understanding of what they may experience in the early days after a loss. The book then goes on to give us an understanding of grief, some insights into various situations of loss, and some strategies to help us work through the process.

This book will be a helpful resource for those who are going through a grief process as well as containing much relevant and practical information for those who would like to know what they can say and how they can help someone who has experienced a significant loss. It will also serve as a basic knowledge and layman’s guide for those in the helping professions such as nurses, teachers, funeral directors and those who seek to support grieving people, young and old, through their work. “First you Hurt, Then you Heal” provides practical, down to earth and effective insight into one of the most difficult topics and most misunderstood experiences of life.

First you Hurt, Then you Heal: A Road Map for the Grief Journey (Kindle Edition) is avaialble to buy on Amazon at £5.51.

66 | FuneralTimes

soulmate, with family or with colleagues.

I remember a friend asking me if I loved my wife. In true Scottish male style, I retorted, “That goes without saying.” He responded, “That’s the trouble. Love GOES … without SAYING!” I never forgot that remark, and I made it a priority to try to say “Love ya” to my spouse, sons and grandchildren every time I talk to them.

In this age of political correctness, you can also utilize “I really appreciate you” when circumstances allow.

I have always taken the attitude that “I would rather make a mistake by saying something than a mistake by not saying something.” Now admittedly that has gotten me into trouble sometimes when it would have been easier to keep quiet, but at least people always know where I stand.

However, we have to be careful. When it comes to emotions like anger or resentment, we should always confront our own feelings first and then express them in a constructive and positive way. I find it goes better when you say how YOU feel about a situation, than accusing people with “You should” statements. But the point is, people cannot grow their relationships, personal or professional, if they hide their feelings from each other.

4. Learn and explore more Do you ever have the urge to learn something new such as another language or how to play guitar? Plan, Prioritize and follow your passions. Learn the new skills and discover something different. As they say, “It’s not the moments in your life, but the life in your moments” that really count.

What’s on your bucket list that you haven’t yet attempted? Going somewhere, doing something, meeting up with someone, somehow? You have your own ideas of things you would like to do before it is too late, So do more of things that you would love to do. What gets you excited? If nothing seems to anymore, check your pulse. If you feel a heartbeat, it’s not too late to get enthusiastic about something. Don’t wait till you regret

that you didn’t do it, because the time will inevitably come when it WILL be too late.

5. Choose to be happy Did you know that happiness is a choice?

You just need to direct your thoughts and emotions. Even in situations where life is difficult, can we find SOMETHING that is good and makes you happy? Life is short, and we have to try to find and experience the joy and thrill that is hidden in every day.

Someone recently showed me a book entitled “The Gift of Disappointment”.

While the title might suggest a Pollyanna philosophy in which we have to see everything as “good”, the author in fact takes a much more realistic approach. As I read it, I began to realize that out of some of the disappointments of my own life, such as the death of loved ones, opportunities that didn’t materialize, or circumstances that seemed unfair, that things have worked out... anyway!

Admittedly I couldn’t see the gift at the time! But as they sing in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, (one of my favorite movies to watch with my granddaughter, which is another happy priority!) “From the ashes of disaster, grow the roses of success.”

Sadness gives depth, while happiness gives height. Sadness delivers roots, while happiness provides branches. The bigger the tree, the bigger will be its roots. In fact, it is always in proportion, height and depth, sadness and happiness. Both are needed in nature and in life, and that is its balance.

6. Live to the fullest and never waste time Bruce Lee once said, “If you love life, don’t waste time, for time is what life is made of.”

Start making every minute count. When you play, enjoy it to the fullest. When you work, create a masterpiece out of the job you do that day. Decide today that you are going to live your life with passion, pursue your dreams, spend more time with people you love, and enjoy every moment you have right now.

And then maybe at the end of life, you will be able to join Edith Piaf in proclaiming, “NO ... no regrets!”

FuneralTimes | 67

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New Galaxy Hearsette® for Phillip G Davies Phillip G Davies independent family funeral directors took delivery of a new Galaxy Hearsette®.

Phillip said ‘The Galaxy is the perfect vehicle for my needs, with a beautiful walnut folding deck it looks both professional and practical. I am delighted to receive my new Galaxy Hearsette®.’

Phillip decided to go for the 2.0 Tdci Galaxy in Moon Dust Silver as he already runs a Silver Fleet of cars. The Galaxy has 7 seats and can easily be transformed using the folding deck to carry to stretchers or up to seven people.

Wilcox Limousines would like to take this opportunity to thank Phillip for his business and wish him and his family a very Happy New Year.

W

Malcolm Brooks, Southern area Sales Manager for Wilcox Limousines handing over a new Galaxy Hearsette® to Phillip G Davies

New Private Ambulance for Charles E. Ashton & Son Funeral Directors C .E. Ashton is a Family Funeral Directors which was established in 1954. It is owned by Eddie and Iris Ashton. The business has two high standard purpose built funeral homes with the main office in Castleford and a further premise in Pontefract. A professional family business, they are members of SAIF. The Mercedes Vito was fitted out

by Wilcox Limousines Ltd to Eddie’s chosen specification including rise and fall deck system, shelving and extra fittings for stretchers.

Owner Eddie Ashton (R) and his Son, Dean, standing Wilcox Limousines Ltd would alongside their new Private Ambulance fitted by Wilcox like to thank Eddie and Iris for Limousines Ltd. their continued custom and wish them every success with their latest purchase.

68 | FuneralTimes

Roman shrines on Freestone Hill, Kilkenny infer drinking at funerals not a modern thing S

ean Keane of Kilkenny People recently covered a major archaeological research project in his local area, bringing to light fresh evidence that the Romans constructed temples where offerings were made to the Gods several miles from the city, just over 1500 years ago.

This adds to an ever-increasing amount of evidence that Roman communities had settled in Kilkenny from the first century BC onwards. There are in fact a significant concentration of Roman artefacts identified right along the river Nore to the south of the city, including a fine example of a first century AD Roman burial in a glass cinerary urn at Stoneyford.

It also transpires that drinking at funerals may have been around longer than we think.

Geophysical surveys on Freestone Hill, Clara on the Carroll family farm, by Cóilín Ó Drisceoil (Kilkenny Archaeology), the Römisch-Germanische Kommission and Ireland’s foremost authority on the Romans, Dr Jacqueline Cahill Wilson, led to the major discovery of the shrines, located just outside the prehistoric hillfort defences.

The find is of international significance, and alters completely our interpretation of

Roman links with Ireland.

One is a square, most-likely ditched, structure with an attached enclosure and the other is a remarkable square post-structure.

A third shrine was previously excavated (though not identified as such at the time) in 1948-9 by the German archaeologist Gerard Bersu.

This was located at the summit of the hillfort, dating back to the fourth century AD by a coin of Constantine II (AD 337340) as well as sherds of Romano-British pottery. This was a large ‘heart-shaped’ shrine, within which, human burials are present in pits along with the bones of horses, dogs and oxen, left as offerings.

Other offerings discovered include a variety of personal and domestic objects; toilet implements, fragments of penannular bracelets, rings, a blue-glass bracelet fragment, a gaming-piece, a Constantine II coin (AD 337-40) and sherds of Late Roman drinking vessels.

The likelihood of these vessels and the human burials in situ being contemporary raises the possibility that drinking at funerals has a long history in Ireland.

FuneralTimes | 69

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Farewell Celtic Ashes 70 | FuneralTimes

www.celtic-ashes.com Email Mary@Celtic-ashes.com today for more information.

6 1 0celebrity columbarium!

2The 2

016 - wow what a year for celebrity deaths!

We kicked off the year with losing David Bowie and Alan Rickman to that devastating disease called cancer and the deaths of Star Wars icon Carrie Fisher, her mother Debbie Reynolds and pop star George Michael in December felt like the final twists of the knife.

Are we being dramatic, or has 2016 actually been a cursed year for the ‘celebrity’ and those who spend time idolizing them**? Millions of people around the world reacted on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat. Why do we mourn people who we have never met, so publicly?

The way that we grieve online today is also amplifying the perception that 2016 really was the worst year for celebrity deaths.

In addition to the 24 hour news cycle, most people are using the aforementioned social media outlets to express their personal memories and attachments to celebrities. Before the world wide web, that conversation and that grief was limited to talking in person and pulling from newspapers.

The younger the celebrity, the cause of death, the more sudden David Bowie’s death the shocked us all in 2016

death, the larger the shock, cultural impact and social media outrage there tends to be rather than if they succumbed to a longstanding illness or old age.

Millions attended Whitney Houston’s funeral and listened to “I will always love you” as her body left the local church. After Getty Images photographer Chris Hondros was killed covering a Libyan uprising, thousands attended his memorial service.

The majority of the audience at each of these funerals attended them virtually which is one of the few things that is changing the way we mourn and how we do funerals in the 21st Century. EVERYONE can be let in to experience this historically private event.

Snapchat, YouTube and Twitter have also made us much more comfortable with sharing intimate details about ourselves online with strangers on a constant basis.

Many deaths and funerals are reported, commented on, tweeted, snapped, recorded and posted online before even their loved ones have heard of the news.

According to Famous NYC Funeral Home to the Stars Frank E Campbell ‘They (the public) want closure’. The funeral home stood as a backdrop to those who came to mourn Heath Ledger in NYC in 2008, as his casket was carried from the home, and the media and fans who came to watch.

The intense dedication and unity of the mourners, the familial connections felt for people they have never met, the volatility of grief was apparent for all to see and this is not just reserved for Heath Ledger and his fans but to every “celebrity” or person FuneralTimes | 71

in the public arena. “They need to be a part of that life that they ... have never touched personally, individually, privately, and in person — but through the media, through television, through the movies, it was very much a part of their growing up and their life. They want closure,” Schultz (director) said. “People from every walk of life.”

National University professor/celebrity death expert Jacque Lynn Foltyn says “All these reactions can be viewed as ways of managing death in societies where actual death and the corpse are hidden away and seldom experienced firsthand but rather through Game of Thrones and CSI. Funerals are more rare, as memorial services have become popular.

For some, social media is the virtual memorial service when they cannot attend, making a death an international event.” **As a side note for all those interested (or maybe its just me!), there is an interesting and (self admittedly) unscientific analysis of whether 2016 really was the worst year for

Heath Ledger was one of many celebrities whose mourners saw his casket leave Frank E Campbell’s, Funeral Home to the stars celebrity deaths... check out CNN.com for further details. We lost at least 34 celebrities in 2016, which factor in Oscar and Grammy winning celebrities but when it comes to numbers, 2016 is edged out by 2006, during which 36 celebrities died. So there!

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72 | FuneralTimes

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Clair Harper and Son Funeral Directors get a fleet upgrade C

lair Harper and Son, trading as Sinclair Funeral Directors, has served the Caithness area since 1850. The business is family-owned and their professional and discreet service has had unrivalled reputation for many generations.

To enhance their Colman Milne fleet, Clair Harper recently took delivery of a Mercedes E220 Hearse. This hearse offers an unparalleled specification and features electric, height-adjustable heated front seats, climate control, self-leveling suspension and a full size, lined (L-R) Coleman Milne’s Tony Kerr and Clair Harper underdeck.

Coleman Milne deliver to Andrew Smith Funeral Directors

(L-R) Andrew Smith with Coleman Milne’s Tony Kerr

Andrew Smith Funeral Directors, based in Moray, have been established since 2005 and have builtup a terrific reputation for offering the most compassionate and understanding services possible.

Andrew is the Seventh generation of Smith to serve the local community and a distant relative of Lord Strathcona (Donald Alexander Smith).

Andrew recently accepted delivery of a quality preowned Insignia hearse from Coleman Milne’s Tony Kerr.

FuneralTimes | 73

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(R-L) Bruce Harris and his Son, Adam, taking delivery of a pre-owned Jaguar Hearse and Limousine supplied by Wilcox Limousines Ltd.

W W

Jaguar fleet for George Hudson & Sons

G

eorge Hudson & Sons Ltd has been serving the families of Carlisle and surrounding areas for over 130 years. The business started in 1865. It is now owned and run by Mary and Bruce Harris. Mary and Bruce have two children, Adam and Emily, and who knows one day one of them may take over the business in the future.

The vehicles chosen by Mary and Bruce come with a high specification including Satellite Navigation, luxury leather, air suspension, heated seats, Bluetooth, DAB stereo and climate control. The hearse deck is one of the largest on the market and offers a vast area for both the coffin and flowers. It is lit by LED lighting when required.

Wilcox Limousines Ltd would like to thank Mary and Bruce for their continued business and wish them every success with their new fleet.

New Jaguar glass roofed hearse delivered A

lan Greenwood received a new Jaguar 3.0 Diesel glass roofed hearse from Wilcox Limousines.

Alan said ‘I am delighted to be receiving another Jaguar Hearse from Wilcox Limousines – I’m incredibly proud of my stunning fleet of vehicles that turn heads wherever we go.’

The new Jaguar Hearse has a panoramic glass roof which is an option Alan wished to have on his new hearse.

It lets more light in and gives even better viewing of the coffin and flowers.

Alan now has a large fleet of Jaguar Hearses and Limousines from Wilcox Limousines and said they are the best available funeral vehicles on the market.

Louis Wilcox, Sales Director of Wilcox Limousines handing over a New Jaguar 3.0 Diesel Hearse to Alan Greenwood Alan also commented that Wilcox limousines with their 3 premises give excellent back up and support with great knowledge and technical advice always available.

Wilcox Limousines would like to thank Alan for his continued business and wish him and his family a very Happy New Year.

FuneralTimes | 75

Bringing it all together Tuesday 3rd Wednesday 4th October 2017 If your business is providing funeral products to the Ireland and UK market, the Funeral Times Trade Show Ireland 2017 is a must for your sales campaign There are VERY LIMITED space options and exhibition areas remaining! To avoid disappointment contact us urgently and...

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Citywest Hotel & Conference Centre Saggart, C0. Dublin Call 028/048 3835 5060 or email sales@funeraltimes.com

Logging off one last time K

ashmira Gander of the Independent recently published a piece exploring the under-the-radar practice of online funerals frequently held for (often younger) gaming enthusiasts, by those with whom they have formed a strong bond online.

For those who spend vast quantities of their leisure time online, in-game funerals and memorials for those whom they may never have met in person, yet formed deep and close bonds with over time, are an integral part of the grieving process. Gaming is now a billion dollar business to rival the sport and music industries, with role-playing games such as World Of Warcraft boasting active online players of 4-6 million.

Virtual funerals have existed in various capacities since the mid 90s. For years, online gamers have organized highly personal in-game memorial services to remember the lives of their fellow players.

The detailed levels of co-operation which is entailed in Massively Multiplayer Online Role Playing Games (MMORPG) can make a person’s absence particularly noticeable.“Much attachment a player feels online is towards the avatar of the

other player,” the authors of the Royal College of Psychiatrists Gaming the Mind blog told The Independent. “Players construct identities online in terms of their appearance, attributes and their own actions, forming an online persona. This is not unlike identities we create offline within various contexts, such as at work or with friends.“Further, akin to the value placed upon a loved ones photos or voicemails, a loved ones saved games may offer a snapshot of an important part of a loved ones life”.

One Reddit user was able to re-watch the last saved game in Skyrim, an elaborate role-playing universe based game, of his brother, capturing some of his last moments.

As word spread of this touching journey, game moderators acted to add a stone to the location where the player last played in tribute.

It is believed that players may be able to find a certain sense of closure from these online death rituals which would otherwise be difficult to experience, not least due to the expansiveness of online play meaning two sharing a close personal bond may be oceans apart.

A message of condolence

In-game funeral from World of Warcraft

78 | FuneralTimes

New Mondeo for Smyth’s of Monaghan R. Gibney of Gibneys of Oldcastle Funeral Directors, collects his new hearse from Fearghas Quinnand Hearse andSmyth, Limousines.

Liam Martin Ballybay, Monaghan with their new Mondeo from Fearghas Quinn Hearse & Limousines

GerryWreath McDermott Manufacturer Circular Road, Roscommon

Mob: 086 2544126 or Mob: 086 8205215

FuneralTimes | 79

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T: 028 2565 2429 FuneralTimes | 81

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82 | FuneralTimes

Launching the New Wilcox Jaguar Glass Roofed Hearse

A stylish new addition to this prestigious range of funeral vehicles

Speci cation

The new Wilcox Jaguar Glass Roofed Hearse, offering greater visibility and light.

■ 3 year warranty ■ 3 service centres ■ Jaguar partners since 1969 ■ British designed and built

Prices available on request.

Head Of ce

www.limousines.co.uk

01753 480 600 enquiries@wilcoxlims.co.uk Northern Sales Ian Roe - 07831 520 572 Southern Sales Malcom Brooks - 07500 859 319 Northern Ireland Sales Louis Wilcox - 01753 480 600