Plans for Omagh crematorium at advanced stage

by Gráinne Connolly

Last month at a Fermanagh and Omagh District Council (FODC) meeting, it was revealed that plans to build a crematorium in Omagh are at an advanced stage. 

This came from a report that was presented to the Council's Policy and Resources Committee.

It was the results of a feasibility study into proposals to site a crematorium and associated facilities at Greenhill Cemetery on the Gortin Road. 

The report also addressed that FODC were requested to participate in a cross-local government meeting, hosted by Belfast City Council. 

It will take place later this month.

The meeting will be held to consider the current and future requirements for crematorium development in Northern Ireland. 

The outcome will be reported to the Policy and Resources Committee at next months (June) Council meeting.

However, the Impartial Reporter reported that an Enniskillen funeral director, John Mc Keegan believes the proposed crematorium project is a "non-starter". 

He questioned the viability of a new crematorium, while there are existing facilities in Belfast and in Cavan. 

Mr McKeegan went on to say that there was less "red tape" in using the crematorium in Cavan, as it is owned by a private individual instead of a local council.