Timmy Dooley (Fianna Fail)

Will the Leader request information from the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government on proposals by the heritage section of his Department to restrict extensions of certain graveyards which are considered by the Department or deemed to be of archaeological, ecclesiastical or monastic significance? There is an age old practice in rural areas of burying families together. Unfortunately, guidelines emanating from the Department are making it impossible for local graveyard committees to extend older graveyards in line with expectations. This has created considerable annoyance among elderly people who had intended to be buried on the grounds in which their forebears were buried. People are concerned that regulations are off-the-wall. These kinds of restrictive practices should not be allowed to continue. Will the Leader invite the Minister to the House to discuss this important matter?