Visitors to cemeteries in Glasgow are expressing outrage over the city council’s decision to affix large stickers on gravestones that indicate they have failed safety inspections. These labels, which in some cases obscure the names of the deceased, have ignited a wave of criticism on social media, where many argue that this action displays a lack of respect for those laid to rest.
The council has defended the use of these stickers as a necessary step to communicate with families regarding the maintenance of memorials. A spokesperson emphasized that it can be difficult to identify who is responsible for a grave after ownership has passed on.
During a visit to Riddrie Park Cemetery, Sami Tollett was taken aback by the sight of these prominent labels on her father’s grave and others nearby. She remarked, > “It’s morally wrong to deface somebody’s resting place. The cemetery used to be a lovely place, but now it’s an eyesore.”
Gravestones typically fall under private care, with families hiring stone masons for upkeep. This practice has come under scrutiny following tragic incidents, such as the death of eight-year-old Ciaran Williamson in 2015 when an unstable headstone fell on him at Craigton Cemetery. An inquiry revealed that nearly 900 headstones at Craigton were identified as unsafe shortly after this incident.
Many visitors, like one woman who chose to remain anonymous while visiting Lambhill Cemetery, voiced their distress about the stickers covering the names of their loved ones. She described it as unsettling to see such prominent labels on gravestones and expressed her sadness over how this practice tarnishes their memories.
In response to the backlash, Glasgow City Council reiterated that ensuring safety in cemeteries is a top priority. They pointed out that while regular inspections are mandated by law, ongoing maintenance falls on the family members or owners of the memorials. Acknowledging the difficulty in identifying those responsible for grave upkeep as generations pass away, they maintain that these measures are necessary for public safety.
As communities continue to grapple with balancing memorial integrity and safety concerns, it remains crucial for local authorities and families alike to find respectful solutions for maintaining the sanctity of burial sites while ensuring public welfare.
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