Agenda item

The minutes of the meeting held on 27 January 2021 were confirmed as a correct record and would be signed and initialled by the Chair.

The Chair noted at the last meeting, under any other business, an issue in respect of accessing the Book of Remembrance had been raised.  He added that he had noted at that meeting that he, along with the Vice-Chair, would explore the issue with the Bereavement Services Manager and Registrar, Graham Harrison.  The Chair explained that his understanding was that the Government guidance that was in place at that time had not changed and therefore operation should be within those guidelines.  He added he would continue to monitor the situation.

Councillor A Hopgood noted Government guidance applied to the whole country, adding that many Councils had found a way to provide for the issue and she felt that Durham should be looking for a way to provide access.  She explained that it had been suggested that it would not need impact on the current crematorium staff, as she appreciated how hard they were working and how their time was restricted.  Councillor A Hopgood noted the finance would be available, as had been suggested at the last meeting, and added she felt the Council should lead by example.  She noted the Council did not follow Government guidance on other matters when it was thought it was the right thing to do.  She explained she felt that was the case in this instance, reiterating that many other Councils had found ways to have their Books of Remembrance accessible for grieving families to visit, adding she felt Durham should be looking for a way to do it.  The Chair noted the comments, adding the appropriate guidance would be followed and added that the Book or Remembrance was available to view online and the grounds of the crematorium were open for those wishing to visit the site.  He added that it was unfortunate that access could not be given currently to the Book of Remembrance building and noted he would monitor the situation while he was in the position to do so.