North Leitrim councillors call for reopening of Manorhamilton Morgue

Cathaoirleach of Manorhamilton Municipal District, Cllr Frank Dolan, has received unanimous support for a motion calling for the restoration of morgue facilities in Manorhamilton.

At Monday's meeting, Cllr Dolan noted that the morgue at Our Lady's Hospital was closed due to Covid adding “but since then it has not reopened.”

He pointed out there is no funeral home in Manorhamilton and said “at this time of year (the weather) makes it very difficult” for bereaved families holding wakes in houses.

“There was an excellent facility here in Manorhamilton. It is now sitting idle and it should be put back in use,” he said, seeking support for his motion asking the HSE to reopen the morgue.

Cllr Sean McDermott seconded the motion noting “people are having to go to Kinlough to use a funeral home. The pandemic restrictions are over so the service should be back and running,” he said.

Cllr Felim Gurn agreed adding that the ongoing closure of the morgue facility is “very frustrating”.

“There is no excuse. This is a good facility, there is good lighting and the car park is there. Having a morgue available is much easier for families than having removals and wakes in houses,” he said noting he will raise the matter at the next HSE forum meeting.

Cllr Mary Bohan agreed noting “this is a public building publicly funded, it should be opened.”

Cllr Justin Warnock and Cllr Padraig Fallon also added their support to the motion.