A WEST Cork cemetery, which is only 30 years old, is in urgent need of substantial drainage and pathway repairs as grieving families are experiencing access and safety issues, a meeting heard last week.

Cllr John Michael Foley (FG), who is also an undertaker, raised the issue at the Bandon Kinsale Municipal District meeting calling on Cork County Council to address the deteriorating conditions of Darrara Cemetery, just outside Clonakilty, which was built in 1994.

He said the problems are no longer ‘minor inconveniences’ and the first issue that should be tackled is the drainage.

‘Many parts of the cemetery become waterlogged after rainfall, leaving soft unstable ground which is difficult and almost impossible to navigate. There is a stream directly across the road from the cemetery, so the water will have to be taken to the stream,’ said Cllr Foley.

‘The pathways too have become an equal if not greater concern. They are rough and uneven, stone are now sinking into the soil, leaving trip hazards throughout the cemetery. These surfaces are no longer fit for purpose.’

Cllr Foley also pointed out that it is extremely difficult to push anything with wheels through the cemetery, including coffin trolley and buggies.

‘You cannot push a wheelchair. Even the headstone trolley, which is essential for maintenance and the respecting handling of memorials – struggled to be moved. The most concerning of all is that often during burials the coffin trolley cannot be used due to the rough and sinking pathways.’

He said it is ‘distressing’ for families and ‘disrespectful’ during what should be ‘solemn, dignified moments.’

He called for the paths to be properly levelled and fully concreted, adding that the motion addressed a broader issue about maintenance standards across all cemeteries.

‘Families consistently report issues with infrequent grass-cutting, overgrown sections and areas that appear neglected. Proper maintenance ensures these spaces remain dignified, safe and welcoming for everyone who visits there. A cemetery must be accessible, dignified and safe and must allow people regardless of age or mobility to move freely and respectfully.’

Cllr John Collins (Ind Ire) seconded the motion and said his party colleague’s father is buried there and he has witnessed people standing at the edge of the graveyard as they were unable to access a grave during a funeral.

‘If we don’t show respect for the dead what chances have we?’ he asked.

Cllr Collins also asked if a tap could be provided at Dunderrow Cemetery and council officials said they would try to accommodate this.

Cllr Marie O’Sullivan (FG) pointed out that funerals are part of our culture and that it is important that cemeteries are properly maintained.

Cllr Alan Coleman (Ind) said it is surprising that Darrara Cemtery has deteriorated so much given that it’s not even that old.

Senior executive engineer Richard Cahill said the cemetery is quite close to a water course and that wasn’t considered 30 years ago when it was being built.

He added that there is funding of €28,000 from the GMA (General Municipal Allocation) and that this a project on the to do list.

Mr Cahill said the council has a high standard of grass cutting at graveyards, but Cllr Foley pointed out that strimmers are now being used as opposed to lawnmowers to cut the grass and they are throwing wet grass onto the headstones.