Burial Grounds

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 April 2012

Tuesday, 24 April 2012

Ceisteanna (404)

Gerry Adams

Ceist:

483 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will review Article 5 of the Public Health Act 1888, amended 23/12/19 and 12/3/29, in view of the fact that this Act prevents burials carried out in the Muslim faith; if he will confirm that he is committed to the promotion of respect for all faiths and that an Act which was passed 124 years ago in an English Parliament needs to be amended.. [20463/12]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government (Deputy Phil Hogan)

The rule that I believe is relevant to the issue raised in the question is rule V of the Rules and Regulations for the Regulation of Burial Grounds, provided under the Public Health (Ireland) Act, 1878, and issued in 1888. My Department will consider the basis for the rule and determine whether a review of the rule would be beneficial.