Rellig Mhuire Burial Ground in Askeaton, Co Limerick, has officially reopened following an extension and upgrade project.
Independent Ireland councillor Tommy Hartigan, deputising for the Mayor of Limerick, said: “This development provides a vital community service for Askeaton and the surrounding area.”
The €107,751 project was funded through Limerick City and County Council’s community infrastructure budget. Works included the clearance of the site, the laying of footpaths, the installation of headstone foundation beams, and other improvements. The extension adds 0.81 hectares to the existing burial ground.
A blessing was carried out by Fr John Mockler of the Roman Catholic Church and Rev Kevin O’Brien of the Church of Ireland, reflecting the inclusive nature of the site.
The development is being delivered in phases. Phase 1 provides 292 burial plots and 41 plots for ashes. Once complete, the extension will have capacity for 1,300 graves and 164 ashes plots.
Rellig Mhuire Burial Ground was first opened in 1962 by Canon Martin and has remained an important site in the local community ever since.