Cemetery to open up for Muslim funerals in Wales

United Kingdom - CARMARTHEN cemetery could have part of its land used for Muslim burials.

Talks will take place later this month among members of Carmarthen Town Council after the idea was raised by councillor Ken Lloyd at the December meeting.
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He said allowing an area of the cemetery in Elim Road — which is run by the town council would be a good move, adding: "This would help serve the Islamic community within the town which has had its own centre for a long time.

"The cemetery could be rededicated for Muslim burials.

"Perhaps we can hold a meeting with the Islamic community over this and discuss it.

"I do think we should explore this as a town council."

However, councillor and reverend Tom Defis said: "The cemetery is public, open to all people and I think setting aside plots like this may cause problem, or for part of the cemetery to be targeted.

"I think we need to be careful not to create problems for ourselves."

According to Islamic law 'shariah', the body should be buried as soon as possible from the time of death, which means that funeral planning and preparations begin immediately.

Mayor Arwel Lloyd said that the proposal will be discussed at the next general purposes meeting of the town council in the coming days.

It will then come back to the full town council following contact being made with the Islamic community in town and discussions held with them.