As part of the strict measures put in place at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, burials were not allowed over weekends and on public holidays in Drakenstein.
Two weeks ago Paarl Post inquired from the Municipality about this rule after complaints was received that family members can often not attend burials during the week due to work responsibilities.
Last week, after the publication of the article in the Paarl Post, the Municipality announced that since South Africa is no longer in a state of disaster funerals may now again take place over weekends, but with limitations.
“Five funerals, where new graves are used, and two burials where a grave is reopened for the placing of a second coffin on top of the existing coffin will be allowed per day over weekends and public holidays in Drakenstein – due to available municipal resources,” Gerald Esau, Executive Director: Community Services at Drakenstein Municipality, said. “The municipality will deal with applications on a first-come, first-served basis. Due to the relaxation of Covid-19 regulations a total of 250 people are now allowed to attend funerals. Night vigils or ‘after-tears’ gatherings are still not allowed.”
He said undertakers are still responsible for ensuring everyone who attends a funeral adhere to the Covid-19 safety precautions by wearing masks, sanitising their hands, and maintaining a safe social distance.
The municipality also announced all municipal halls and facilities are now also available again for rental.
