Roselawn Cemetery Security Enhanced Following Paramilitary Incidents

Belfast City Council has announced modifications to security protocols at Roselawn cemetery and crematorium, prompted by concerns regarding paramilitary displays. In April, masked individuals were photographed within the crematorium during the funeral service for a former member of the Ulster Defence Association (UDA). A distinct event in August involved a report of men observed in uniforms described as alleged paramilitary-style during a graveside ceremony. Both the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) and the council have confirmed the closure of their respective investigations into these matters. A spokeswoman for the council stated: “A number of internal actions have been put in place to improve site security and ensure Roselawn cemetery and crematorium operate effectively as places of reflection for bereaved families and visitors.” These security enhancements reportedly include consistent patrols of the premises and initiatives to reinforce internal staff procedures for addressing and documenting incidents as they occur. As understood by BBC News NI, there are currently no intentions to install additional CCTV cameras or other forms of security infrastructure. The photographs depicting masked men positioned over a coffin within the crematorium were initially publicized in May by the Belfast Telegraph. Independently, in August, an account emerged of men present at a graveside dressed in white shirts, ties adorned with symbols, and black armbands. The council declared in a statement that the second incident was determined “not to be paramilitary in nature”. A spokeswoman confirmed: “Both council investigations have now concluded, and party group leaders on council have been updated.” She further added: “The incident in May was an unauthorised display inside our facility, while the incident in August was found not to be paramilitary in nature.” The council has maintained full communication with the PSNI concerning their inquiries. The PSNI stated that both investigations have “closed pending further evidence being received by police”. A police spokeswoman explained: “Enquiries were made by police in relation to both of these investigations and available evidence was reviewed with engagement from Belfast City Council.” Jim Rodgers, who chairs the council’s cemeteries and crematorium working group, expressed satisfaction with the internal measures implemented. The Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) councillor emphasized the necessity for sensitivity, stating that “we are conscious that it’s a cemetery and a crematorium”. He further remarked: “Our staff are very diligent if there is a complaint made. They deal with it extremely quickly.” Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.