Authorities in Tayside and Fife could look again at restrictions on public gatherings at funeral services after complaints about a lack of social distancing.
Councils on both sides of the Tay have changed their rules for funeral attendances at cemeteries and crematoria in line with government guidance on the coronavirus outbreak, meaning services have been open to “immediate family” only.
But The Courier was sent photographs from readers of two funeral services, taken last week in Kirkcaldy and Dundee, that appear to show guidelines are not being adhered to.
It us understood additional measures were taken at the Kirkcaldy service, which was held at Hayfield Cemetery, with face masks, hand sanitisers and gloves made available at the cemetery gates. Mourners were also told to follow strict social distancing guidelines and remain at least two metres apart.
Another picture taken at Dundee Crematorium appears to show a large group of people in close proximity.
Fife Council has warned that if large gatherings arise outside cemeteries or crematoria, the local authority may have to move to closed funerals – barring grieving families from services altogether.
Current guidance suggests no more than six people should attend.
A Fife Council spokesperson said: “We appreciate that bereavement is a very difficult time for families and friends but we must do everything we can to minimise the spread of covid-19 and keep people safe.
“Recently, large numbers of mourners have been gathering in the crematorium grounds.
“Although this is understandable, we need to remind everyone that the crematorium is open to the immediate family attending the service only.
“Unfortunately, if these rules are not followed, we’ll move to closed services.”
