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Antigua and Barbuda is, again, on the brink of a burial crisis. With only a single grave space left at the public cemetery, the system is bursting at the seams and families are being left in a state of uncertainty.
In the space of two days last week, two graves were filled and another reserved for later this month. That has left just one available burial spot. Yet, the undertakers’ backlog paints an even grimmer picture. Barnes Funeral Home reportedly has at least eight bodies awaiting burial this week, while Straffie’s holds three.
Simple mathematics makes the situation clear: the island has far more deceased awaiting burial than it has space to accommodate them. This reality leaves no room for hesitation — by force, Tranquility Park must now be opened for burials.
The failure to expand capacity in a timely manner is not just a logistical issue, it’s a matter of dignity for the dead and compassion for the grieving families. The government must act immediately before the situation descends into an outright crisis.
Families should never have to wonder where their loved ones will be laid to rest. Yet here we are — facing a burial crisis born out of government neglect.
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