Funeral times issue 5 2014

The magazine for Funeral Directors in Ireland

2013 Vol.13 No.5

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The magazine for Funeral Directors in Ireland

Building a coffin at the Trade Show..........................10

Robert Thomspon awarded ISO 9001.......6

Obituary Peadar Byrne................5

Contents

Obituary - Peadar Byrne.....................................5 Robert Thompson awarded ISO 9001..............6 Show report..........................................................8 IAFD News......................................................... 16 Jennifer Muldowney reports on the NFDA International Convention, Texas......... 22 BIE News............................................................25 Glyn at the NFDA Convention in Texas..................24

Editorial and Advertising contacts: Graham Brown | Ruth McQuillan Vikki Crangle | Paula Hanna Tel: (028) 3835 5060 (048) from ROI Funeral Times is owned and published by: InHouse Publications, 1 Annagh Drive, Craigavon, Co. Armagh BT63 5WF email: sales@funeraltimes.com website: www.funeraltmes.com

Like Yis Always Do by Mattie Lennon............ 36 NAFD News....................................................... 39 SAIF News......................................................... 43 Making funeral friends in a blog......................52 Gus Nichols on live streaming..........................55 PEAI News..........................................................58 Death Care Academy of Ireland.......................67 Dr Bill Webster.................................................. 70 A new alternative to autopsy?...........................78 Classifieds...........................................................87

Disclaimer: Readers are urged to support the magazine’s advertisers, but the publishers cannot be held responsible for any claims made or implied in the advertisements. The publishers reserve the right to refuse advertising. Opinions expressed in this magazine by contributing writers and advertisers are not necessarily those of the publishers. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information contributed for inclusion in this magazine but no legal responsibility will be accepted by the publishers for loss arising from the use of published articles. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior consent. Articles and photographs for inclusion are welcomed but the publishers cannot accept responsibility for their loss or damage however caused.

FuneralTimes | 3

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Tel: 059 - 9151286 email: henrypaton@eircom.net Alec Paton Mob: 087 257 8005 William Paton Mob: 087 6787115 Seamus Jones Mob: 087 2637232

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Obituary

Peadar Byrne Peadar Byrne, founder of Byrne Coachbuilders, Dundalk, passed away on 2nd September. For nearly fifty years, he designed and built specialist vehicles for funeral directors.

P

eadar started his career in the Great Northern Railway (GNR) in Dundalk, spending a short time with McArdle and Duffy Coachbuilders before setting up his own company in the early seventies. His skill levels and ability to create led many people to remark “He has great hands”.

The GNR was a renowned proving ground, and like his father before him, who was a foreman on the railway, his skills were enhanced serving his time and working with this highly skilled workforce. The world of fibreglass, ideally suited to Peadar’s creativity, brought business to the company, converting vehicles for the ESB and CIE, but it was his expertise in converting vehicles for the funeral trade that became his main focus. Examples of his hearses and limousines are to be found throughout Ireland and Britain, indeed some have been known to have been exported to Malta and South Africa.

The sea became a lifelong passion for Peadar.

He was a natural seafarer and he was often to be found on his boat around Carlingford Lough and using it as a base for trips further afield.

Those who knew Peadar would describe him as a fair man, direct and unambiguous, who held strong opinions and spoke his mind, like it or not. The business he started maintains its position at the forefront of design and production, particularly at a time when funeral vehicle conversions are subjected to a rigorous quality and type approval regime. Peadar Jr., the third generation to bear the name and carry on the coachbuilding tradition rooted in the historic GNR, now runs the company. “Maybe some of the skillset has been passed down”, he has commented. Years in the presence of and learning from a craftsman of the railway era

provide a strong and lasting legacy on which the company can continue to build.

After an illness lasting a year and a half, borne with the fortitude and resilience expected of one of his era, Peadar died peacefully at home, aided by the hospice personnel and good friends and cared for by his devoted family. He is survived by his wife Nora, sons Peadar Jr., and Aron, daughters Eilish, Derrie and Kelly, grandchildren and a wide circle of family and lifelong friends. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

FuneralTimes | 5

Robert Thompson Funeral Directors become the first Funeral Director in Ireland to achieve ISO 9001 quality certification The Waterford-based Funeral Directors have been awarded ISO 9001:2008 certification by the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) following three years of work and a comprehensive auditing process.

R

obert Thompson Funeral Directors is a family run business that has been operating in Waterford City and the south-east for over 227 years from the same premises in Barrack Street it still operates from today.

Thompson’s have long been recognised as leaders in embracing new practices and technologies in the Irish funeral industry. In 2011 they were the first funeral director in the world to launch a dedicated iPhone app which was shortlisted for an Eircom Spider Award in 2012. Now in 2013 they have become the first Funeral Director in Ireland, and one of the few Funeral Directors in the world, to achieve ISO 9001 certification, the world’s foremost quality management standard.

“Most people are surprised about the advances we make as Funeral Directors.

They regard it as quite a traditional industry” stated John Thompson, Director. “By seeking ISO 9001 certification we have taken another step forward in keeping our business up to the highest global standards of quality management”.

The globally recognised standard is used in over 170 countries worldwide and requires an extensive auditing process before registration is granted. “The NSAI audited every single element of our business during a one year period, from maintenance and improvement of facilities and equipment through to how client families requirements are met and guaranteed, not to mention

6 | FuneralTimes

compliance with all applicable legislation affecting our industry and the business environment in general” John said.

The internationally recognized certification supports the efforts of organisations to deliver excellent service and customer satisfaction and to create trust in those who use products or services which have the certification. John said “our goal in seeking

ISO 9001:2008 certification was to reassure ourselves and our client families that the quality of the services we provide, and which they receive, meets the highest international standards”.

Fergal O’Byrne, Business Excellence Manager at the NSAI said “it was a new experience for us to apply ISO 9001:2008 to the funeral industry and it serves to demonstrate that the ISO 9001 quality management standard is applicable to all business, regardless of size or sector. The value of the ISO 9001 standard is that it requires a company to take an in-depth analysis of how it provides its services and it also provides the necessary steps to ensure that its customer requirements are met.

Michael Thompson, Director, says the three year process was hard work but worth every minute. “Through this process, and with the guidance and experience of the NSAI, we have learned a lot about how we carry out our business. It has helped us improve in some areas and reassured us that what we do

in other areas ensures that our client families receive the best possible service, which is vital at the difficult time when a family is grieving.

Our service must be flawless and ongoing compliance with ISO 9001:2008 will assist us in ensuring that it is”.

FuneralTimes | 7

We are delighted that the first Funeral Times Trade Show IrelandÂŽ 2013 which took place at Citywest Conference Centre, Saggart, Co. Dublin on 1st and 2nd October was such a success. Feedback from both exhibitors and visitors has been positive and significant business was transacted over the two days. The near eight-hundred strong attendance was beyond our expectations and we thank you for turning out in such numbers.

Apart from the important commercial aspect, Funeral Times aimed to create a family atmosphere and a social occasion where the wider industry could meet in a relaxed environment to share views and exchange opinion - a gathering for the funeral sector in Ireland. The craic started before the doors even opened on Tuesday morning and carried on until the last stand was packed away late on Wednesday. The dinner on Tuesday evening was over subscribed and funeral directors seemed to take over the entire hotel late into the evening.

Interest in the seminar programme was keen and all the presentations were well attended - some to over-flowing. The speakers - each eminent in their specialism - educated their audiences on topics relevant in today’s fast-changing and ever-intrusive regulatory world.

The representative bodies got behind the show with gusto and organised meetings and events in tandem, adding greatly to the success. The whole trade came together and put on a wonderful event which struck the balance between business, education and entertainment. It allowed people to meet who might otherwise never get the opportunity.

The venue also played its part. The friendly staff, superb facilities, the seemingly endless space and ease of access all added to the appeal. A big thank you to all of the exhibitors, sponsors and those who attended.

We are pleased to announce that Funeral Times Trade Show IrelandÂŽ 2015 will be held on Tuesday 29th and Wednesday 30th September at Citywest. Plans are already afoot to present an even bigger and better show two years hence. Remember the date.

The Editor 8 | FuneralTimes

ANNOUNCING

FUNERAL TIMES TRADE SHOW IRELAND 2015 速

速

wishes to thank all the exhibitors, presenters and visitors who made the Trade Show 2013 such a huge success and is pleased to announce that the next show will be held at Citywest Hotel & Conference Centre, Saggart, Co. Dublin on Tuesday 29th and Wednesday 30th September 2015

Business, Education, Entertainment The showcase for Ireland's funeral industry

Further information call Ruth, Paula or Graham on 048 (RoI) / 028 (UK) 3835 5060 or email: sales@funeraltimes.com

FuneralTimes | 9

The Shepherd’s Mortuary & Funeral Supplies Team

William Kenny and Patrick Hickey of McNally Funeral Directors in Balbriggan, Co. Dublin with William McGuckin of CPL Funeral Supplies

Joe and Hazel Noone from Spirit Memorials, Limerick & Galway pictured with James Brown, Michael Crowley and Joanne Cooney from IAFD

Angela Preece of Batesville Caskets UK Ltd.

Danny Morning with Michael Clarke (Death Care Academy) and Michael Morning of Morning Grave Products

John Finnegan, Finnegans Funeral Directors, Co. Kerry with Simon Rothwell and Steve Huggins of Flexmort 10 | FuneralTimes

Colin McAteer and Niall Deacon from Green Coffins Ireland with Ian Johnson, Embalmer and Austen Stinson of WT Morrison Funeral Directors, Enniskillen alongside Martin Boyle of Green Coffins Ireland.

John Foley and Paul Foley of The Directors Cut are pictured with Darwin Stevenson of J. Stevenson & Son Funeral Directors, Ballymena, Co. Antrim

Liam O’Connor and Kenneth Plunkett of Air Creative Ltd. (Cork & Dublin) UK & Ireland

Padraig O’Reilly, Declan Finnegan of Lakeland Crematorium and Mike Higgins of T. Wallis & Sons, Midleton, Co. Cork

Michael & Alice Deery, Funeral Director from Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan pictured with Mark Campbell of Funereal Soft Furnishings, Belfast

Ryan and Chris Sheals of S. Sheals & Son, Newtownards, Co. Down with Sean McCreesh, M. McCreesh & Sons Funeral Directors, Forkhill, Co. Armagh

Michael Allen, Funeral Director from Rockchapel, Co. Cork with David Burns of Burns Coffins and Caskets alongside Ian Hession of Hessions Coffins and Sean Allen also of Rockchapel

Monica Hickey of McNally Funeral Directors, Balbriggan, Co. Dublin with David Conboy of Western Grave Products

Damien Smith, Vintage Hearse Hire Ireland FuneralTimes | 11

David Thompson, Aideen Stapleton and Brian Nutley of The Glasnevin Trust

Noel Gibbons of Kilgariff Funeral Directors, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon with Eamon Cassidy, Funeral Supplies Donegal and Malachy Fallon, Stafford Funeral Directors, Dublin alongside Geert Triest, Funeral Supplies Donegal

Steve Pentith, Odlings MCR Ltd with Martin Browne of Grave Maintenance Services, Co. Dublin

Aidan Clarke, Clarkes Funeral Home, Baileysborough, Co. Cavan with Damian Flynn of Creative Binding Solutions

Darwin Stevenson, Andrew McMullan & William Millar with Alan Slater (NAFD) plus Lesley and David Hyde (NFE)

Thomas Dermody, Elaine Dermody and Pat Murphy of P. Molloy and Sons, Kilkenny talk business with Gerard Duffy of Duffy Coachbodies Dundalk Ltd.

David Gleeson, Peter Sandor and Jackie Carron of Celtic Coffins

Patrick Byrne of Skelly’s Funeral Directors, Ballymahon with Lianne and Jim Kinnane of Irish Heritage Urns

12 | FuneralTimes

Clare Rooney, DJ MacNeice with Darragh Walsh, Walsh’s Funeral Directors, Carrick-on-Suir, Co. Tipperary and Joe Byrne, Byrne Funeral Directors, Pittown, Co. Kilkenny

Hugh Byrne, Funeral Director from Graiguenamanagh, Co. Kilkenny with Gerard Campbell of GM Canopies

Patrick Byrne, Skelly’s Funeral Directors, Ballymahon, Co. Longford with Ian Ledwith, Tom Coburn and Martin Glennon of Eamon Glennon Limited alongside Sean and Theresa Whitney, Funeral Directors from Drumlish, Co. Longford

Joan Duff and Tommy McCormack of Curtis Coffins with Donal Breslin of Breslin’s Funeral Directors, Bundoran, Co. Donegal alongside Mark Curtis of Curtis Coffins

Fearghas Quinn pictured with Matthew Keegan and David Good both from Keegan Funeral Directors in Portlaoise

Joanne Callan and Kate Hamilton of Mourning Cross

Robert Räther of Pollmann Service Center, Germany with Paul Molloy of Fort Motors, Tallaght Anthony Bingham, Pollmann and Peadar Byrne of Byrne Coachbuilders Ireland FuneralTimes | 13

Hearse & Limousines Tel: 028/048 2582 2525 Fax: 028/048 2582 2299

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13 Garvaghy Road, Portglenone, County Antrim BT44 8EF

Email: fearghas@fearghasquinn.com or visit our website for more information ** Feel free to call us, with no obligation. Rest assured we will not pester you with phone calls or unsolicited visits **

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Four Funerals and a (nearly) Wedding!

By Mary Elizabeth Dillon

F

ull of anticipation we loaded up the car and headed for Citywest. On arrival we discovered just how big Citywest is and inspected every corner of it before finally, with the help of Conor, we found the right car park and unloaded.

Although it was only set up time there was a buzz of energy and excitement around the room. Civil Funerals are relatively new and I wasn’t sure of the response I was going to get, but as the doors opened on Tuesday morning at 10am I stood up, took a deep breath and got ready for action. And boy oh boy was there action.

I didn’t sit down again until 5.30pm, exhausted, hoarse and thrilled. A continuous stream of undertakers and all those associated with the business came through the doors.

It was a fabulous opportunity for the funeral business to come together and it has really put Civil Funerals on the map nationwide. I answered queries from businesses in Kerry, Clare, Donegal and all parts in between. It was great to see so many people all wanting to know what is new and how they can bring another dimension to the service that they offer.

I got more than I bargained for when early in the day I was approached by one of the more mature undertakers from down the country.

We discussed what I do and when I asked him about his own business he looked me straight in the eye and told me as well as the undertaking, he had a ‘bit of a farm, - a beef farm.’ Now to the uninitiated where I come from this translates as a proposal of marriage.

My mother who was with me helping out quickly jumped in and asked him the size of his acreage and I don't think she was talking about his farm!

He continued unabated and told us about his lovely cars which he hires out for weddings and how he would have no problem with the

reception as he would be able to supply the beef from the farm for the roast beef dinners. I was too shocked to speak but recovered myself just in time to politely decline his kind offer. It took me some time to recover from the encounter but when I saw him later deep in conversation with another young lady, I smiled knowingly and thought to myself what a narrow escape I had.

After the excitement of the day it was time to socialize, drinks at 6.30pm followed by a fabulous dinner and excellent company. The bar was buzzing all night and was still crowded when I left (I won’t say what time) and we still had one day to go.

Eamon Walsh, the world champion uilleann piper, kept us entertained with a vast array of tunes, playing a special rendition of Boolavogue in honour of my native County Wexford.

The day flew in, busy and with high spirits all around. I have never encountered such a good atmosphere at anything similar or had two more enjoyable days in a long, long time.

I look forward to the next show, to renew old acquaintances and who knows, next time I might not refuse a proposal!

FuneralTimes | 15

IAFD News Dear Colleagues, I find it hard to believe that as I write, I am nearing the end of my presidency. At this stage I realise every president before me has probably thought, “The term of presidency has flown”. Now having donned the presidency chain, I can understand where they were coming from.

As I approach the end of my term, I wish to take this opportunity to thank my colleagues on the Board and Orla for all their hard work and dedication throughout the year.

Regrettably Seamas Griffin has decided to resign and he will be greatly missed.

He made a significant contribution and in recent times the IAFD would not have had the Coroners position paper but for him.

On behalf of the Board and the membership I would like to acknowledge and thank Seamas for his dedication and the vast amount of time he gave to the IAFD over many years. I wish him all the best in his future career.

I now wish to address a number of topics: Annual General Meeting This year’s AGM is shaping up to be a busy one. Not only will we be dealing with important issues regarding how the IAFD operates, but because this is an election year the business of the meeting will also include the appointment of the board officers and directors. The election is a particularly important function of the membership, and it is imperative to the running of the IAFD. Throughout my presidential year I have had conversations with some members regarding the role of a director and quite rightly the memberships’ expectations of directors.

16 | FuneralTimes

When I was elected to the board in 2007, I was not aware of what lay ahead. For years I attended meetings with my late father and I can remember having discussions with him about what exactly the Board of the IAFD does, his answer to me was always the same, “never judge a book by its cover”. How right he was. I had no realisation of the work that goes on “behind the scenes”, not only on a monthly basis but more often, on a weekly and sometimes, daily basis.

Aside from carrying out your “director duties” voluntarily, it’s the experience and skills of each director that is essential to the successful operation of our Association. Aside from the time required to fulfill the role and the obligations involved, there are a number of real benefits derived from being a member of the board, all of which will contribute to your own personal development as well as the development of your business.

Coroner’s Removals This matter is moving at a slower pace than the Board anticipated, however, we will keep on top of the issues and keep you updated as matters progress.

Education The first group of candidates began their studies on 14th February 2013 and will complete their studies in the coming weeks.

I would like to congratulate the following candidates and thank them for their very active participation: • Maureen Clarke, Dublin • Stuart Collier, Wicklow • Pat Keller, Nenagh • John Kennedy, Dublin

IAFD News • Colm Kieran, Cavan • Anthony McCarthy, Cork • Andrew MaGuire, Dublin • Peter MaGuire, Dublin • Michael Smith, Bangor • Donal Tierney, Tipperary • Dermot Toolan, Meath • Paula Townley-Crosbie, Louth A second group commenced study on October 3rd 2013 and will complete the programme by July 2014. I wish them well and look forward to working closely with them over the next few months.

The CFP course would not be the success it is without the hard work of the Education Committee and the support they have received from past candidates, tutors, members and other stakeholder groups. I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the continued support, financial and otherwise, received from Glasnevin Trust which enables the Education Committee to further develop and enhance the CFP course.

Regional Meetings We held Regional Meetings in Sligo, Cork, Cavan, Armagh and Limerick, I would like to thank the membership for the warm welcome the Board and I received and for their very active participation during the meetings.

Regulation Development Committee Following establishment of the committee at the Annual General Meeting in November 2012, the first full meeting took place on 10 January 2013. During this meeting it became obvious that there are various issues around regulation. As a result a Regulation Survey was distributed in September to the membership and I would like to thank those of you who responded.

All returned responses were entered into a Draw, which took place at the regional meeting in Armagh on 26th September 2013.

The winner was Paul O’Neill, "Shallon",

Parsonstown, Carbury, Co. Kildare, who will receive a voucher entitling him to a double room in the Ferrycarrig Hotel and two tickets for the AGM Dinner Dance next month.

The RDC will now consider the results and the committee will now commence its work.

Funeral Times Trade Show I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Graham, Ruth and all those involved at Funeral Times on their very successful Trade Show. The Board and I were delighted to have been present and we were delighted to have met with so many of the membership. We had another Draw at the IAFD Stand; the winner was, Bill Fitz-Gerald, Macroom, who will also receive a voucher entitling him to two tickets for the AGM Dinner Dance next month.

President Farewell I have thoroughly enjoyed my year and I would like to take this opportunity to thank my fellow colleagues on the Board for their tireless dedication and support shown to me throughout my term as president. I would also like to thank all the membership and associate members of the IAFD for their various emails, phonecalls and letters received.

I would like to wish Henry Black our incoming President all the best for his year, I look forward to working with Henry and reciprocating the support he gave to me.

Lastly, I encourage you to attend our “education seminar” on Saturday 23rd and look forward to welcoming as many of you as possible to Wexford.

Kind Regards,

FuneralTimes | 17

2013 IAFD Board Joanne Cooney (President) James Cooney Funeral Directors, 4 Robert Street, New Ross Ph: 051 421416 Mobile: 087 8180676 Email: joanne@cooneysfuneralhome.com

SĂŠamas Griffin (Past President) Kirwan funeral Directors 21/23 Fairview Strand, Dublin 3.

Tel: 01 8334444 Email: s.grffin@kirwans.ie Graham Gleasure (Acting Pro)

Henry Black (Vice President) Henry Black Funeral Directors, Springbank, Rushbrooke, Cobh Phone: 021-4811630.

Mobile: 087-2544106 Michael Crowley (Secretary) Crowley Funeral Directors, Bothar Saclay, Ballincollig, Co. Cork Ph. 021 4874777 Email info@crowleyfuneraldirectors.ie John Foley (Treasurer) Jennings Funeral Directors 81 Amien Street Dublin 1 Ph. 01 8555511

The Gleasure Funeral Home, Matt Talbot Road, Tralee Ph 066 712 3079 Fax. 066 712 3193 Mob. 086 258 1443 Email: graham@gleasures.ie Gerard Clarke Gerard Clarke & Sons Funeral Home Main Street, Baliisodare, Sligo Ph: 071-9130700 Mobile: 087-2565310 Email: gerardclarkeandsons@eircom.net John O'Donoghue John O'Donoghue & Sons Funeral Directors 60a Kickham Street Clonmel Ph: 052-6121809 Mobile: 086-2595658 Email: jaodonoghue@eircom.net

James Brown (Education Committee Chair) Funeral Services Northern Ireland Ltd. 300 Newtownards Road, Belfast BT4 1HF Email: jb@james-brown.info Colman Finlay (Membership Officer) Finlay, Tierney Street, Ardee, Co. Louth Ph. 041 6853603 Email: colman.finlay@finlaygrp.com

18 | FuneralTimes

www.iafd.ie

IAFD News Education Seminar

History, Practice, Innovations, Planning for the Future within The Funeral Sector - Delivered by Todd W. Van Beck AGM 2013 Education Seminar Saturday 23rd November, 9.15am - 1.30pm Ferrycarrig Hotel, Wexford.

Todd W. Van Beck is one of the best known and most well regarded educators, writers and speakers in the funeral profession. His book, Winning Ways, and the articles he frequently contributes to trade magazines illustrate Van Beck's seemingly limitless ability to come up with simple yet innovative ways to improve a funeral home and his knack for explaining good business practices in a down-to-earth, step-by-step way.

Todd Van Beck brings wit and wisdom to every topic imaginable, captivating audiences with both History, ideas. practice, planning for the future: Todd Van Beck brings creative thinking and practical Theinnovations, seminar will include: wit to every topic imaginable, captivating audiences both creative • Aand fun,wisdom fast-paced presentation • Applications and practices specificwith to the funeral and thinking cemeteryand practical ideas.

Each seminar includes: profession • Visuals and multi-media enhancement • Manuals and handouts to enhance • A fun, fast-paced presentation retention • Videos and slides for participants to use back at home • Certificate of attendance • applications and practices specific to the funeral and cemetery profession awarded to all candidates

• • •

visuals and multi-media enhancement manuals and handouts to enhance retention videos and slides for participants to use back at home

The four star Ferrycarrig Hotel has a fantastic location, situated 2kms outside vibrant Wexford town in the peaceful and picturesque townland of Ferrycarrig. Access from Dublin, via the N11 is currently only two hours by car.

We are one hour's drive of Waterford, Kilkenny and Carlow. Ferrycarrig Hotel boasts one of the most inspiring and spectacular locations of any hotel in Ireland. Active Days for the young at heart, from the towering Blackstairs Mountains to our magnificent beaches, the diversity and beauty of Wexford is being increasingly enjoyed by visitors looking for something a little different to more crowded destinations.

Wexford enjoys a wealth of historic places of interest to stimulate the mind. Ferrycarrig Hotel is also the perfect base from which to explore the Southeast, perfect for afternoons of relaxed exploration.

FuneralTimes | 19

IAFD News Irish Association of Funeral Directors

Annual Dinner Dance The President and Board of the Irish Association of Funeral Directors invite you to our Annual Dinner Dance to be held on the evening of the Annual General Meeting on Saturday 23rd November 2013 at 7.30 sharp at the Ferrycarrig Hotel Wexford.

To reserve a place or table, please contact: Orla Nolan on ROI: 0818 935 000 NI: 0800 912 1500 Irish Association of Funeral Directors, Mespil Business Centre, Mespil House, Sussex Road, Dublin 4.

Tickets are priced at €75 and will include a four course dinner menu, followed by a live band.

Unit 8a, 8c, Felnex Unit Felnex Close Close Cross Green Green Cross Industrial Industrial Estate Estate Leeds LS9 LS9 0SR Leeds 0SR t: 01132401070 2401070 || f:f:0113 t: 0113 01132406346 2406346 email: olympiabrand@btconnect.com email: olympiabrand@btconnect.com

• Aluminium grave vases vases ininstock sizes • Aluminium grave stock sizes • Products available with anodised gold

• Products available with anodised gold lids also galvanised steel weights lids alsovases galvanised steel‘Inweights • Enamelled with or without Loving Memory’ (optional silverwith or gold • Enamelled vases orlettering) without • Pet Urns available on request ‘In Loving Memory’ optional silver or gold lettering Order over 144 flower conatiners 006D0711

mix and match receive 10% discount • Petany Urns available on request Order over 75 Urns - mix and match receive 20% discount

www.olympiametalspinners.co.uk 20 | FuneralTimes

Tallon Mortuary Specialists School of Embalming

Qualify for membership of an internationally recognised embalming qualification (BIE) at your own pace The ‘Tallon Mortuary Specialists School of Embalming’ offers both Distance Learning and attended courses leading to membership of the British Institute of Embalmers The ‘Tallon Mortuary Specialists School of Embalming’ offer students and registered embalmers the highest standards of teaching and practice in a supportive environment, with full use of our training facility.

For further information and to discuss how this course might work for you contact:

Glyn Tallon - 14 Academy Street, Navan, Co. Meath Mobile: 086 826 8876 Web: www.tallonmortuaryspecialists.com Email: info@tallonmortuaryspecialists.com

World of Funerals – Texas style T

he NFDA International Convention took place in Austin, Texas in October and Funeral Times asked Jennifer Muldowney, author of Say Farewell Your Way, A Funeral Planning Guide for Ireland, to give us her impressions They say everything is bigger in Texas - this certainly seemed an appropriate description for what I witnessed at the 2013 National Funeral Director Association’s International Convention in Austin, Texas. From coffins, memorial products, and water burials to mushroom suits and Billy Connolly to dried edible ice cream, the show more than catered for everyone’s taste.

And when I say everyone I truly mean it – there were stands that sold pashmina scarves, hats, handbags and gold, silver and copper jewelry – nothing to do with the funeral industry at all. There was a facial youth serum on sale - I don’t know if they realized the irony of that product.

An interesting concept called Moon Memorials were providing onlookers with quite an array of merchandise from arrows and stress balls to the aforementioned dried ice cream.

Neapolitan was the flavour and although I was told it was ‘delicious’ I personally like my ice cream wet! Aside from their distracting merchandise the concept of Moon Memorials intrigued me – they plan to launch the first mission to the moon carrying the ashes of 800 people as part of an outer space life celebration.

The only problem I have is that this business is not yet up and running as a result of funding and also their website is unavailable currently.

Not a good sign all in all but I do like the idea.

One of the most exciting ventures that the convention launched this year was the Design for Death competition, which invited entrants from all over the world to think creatively about funerals and memorials. Over 1,300 entries from over 90 different countries entered the worlds first ever competition of its kind. The winning concepts were on view to everyone at the convention center.

The Lien Foundation, ACM Foundation and the NFDA organized the competition

22 | FuneralTimes

collectively. Mr Lee Poh Wah, CEO of the Lien Foundation said “The designers have interpreted the needs of our generation with sensitivity and empathy. Their innovations and styles give us new ways to relate to death and dying. Their designs not only invite us to reflect on our mortality, they provide what we seem to be yearning for in death and in life – meaning, engagement and fulfillment.” More info can be seen on www.designfordeath.com Speaking on a personal and professional level to attendees at the convention were Dr. Thomas Long and Thomas Lynch, co-authors of The Good Funeral book. They made two important keynote speeches, the final one focused on society and how it deals with dying, death and how we, the funeral industry servants, can better serve the dead, dying and bereaved which was a nice focus considering the very important and timely launch at this year’s convention was the Funeral and Memorial Information Council’s ‘Have the Talk of a Lifetime’ awareness campaign.

A national and grassroots campaign the ‘Have the Talk of a Lifetime’ awareness campaign is focused on motivating families to have a conversation about life, what they value most and how they wish to remember and be remembered. Linda Darby, the National Concrete Burial Vault Associations rep to FAMIC summarized it very well saying “I can’t ever remember a time in my professional

career in which a group of key funeral service organizations have united around a common goal and developed a campaign of this nature”.

The campaign will include brochures, videos, advertisements on and offline, social media and an informational website.

One of the exhibitors who had the greatest impact on me was actually one of the simplest stands. There was no merchandise, no flashy displays, no massive banners or colourful screens screaming at me, there was just one young guy standing at a table with some boxes and some brochures. It stood out because it was different, unassuming, and pure and they were inexperienced or clearly working on a budget. The offering was biodegradable urns.

Nothing new there but there was something else that caught my attention. Water burial urns, also biodegradable, intended to float with the cremated remains inside for 2-4 minutes on water then elegantly sink to the river floor. I have always been a big fan of water and for me, unless there is another more environmentally friendly option available, cremation is how I would like to go. So to have a final memorial where my ashes, encased in a biodegradable urn, could float out to sea, on a lake, in a river for a few moments while those I have left behind could say a few words is a beautiful tribute. Based in Seattle, Lasting Impressions Urns can be found via their website with the same name.

FuneralTech, a new company on the scene launched a new app called Memory Maker at this year’s convention. The app is designed specifically for each funeral home and can be downloaded by family members. They can view all of the products and services on offer by that funeral home with no time pressure and in the comfort of their own home allowing them to digest all the options and various costs associated with the funeral.

What I found fascinating was that during a year of testing the market, FuneralTech found that they increased average funeral home revenues by 10% per funeral. Its an interesting result because I would have thought that with no pressure or someone looming over your shoulder as you make decisions most people would opt for the cheaper options - but maybe not so.

Key features to the app include - more power in the family's hands, saves time for both customer and funeral director, apparently increases revenue while also improving customer satisfaction. It is currently available in Ireland.

A twinkling Mevisto stand also caught my eye – it is a business that transforms a loved one’s ashes (if dead) or hair (if living) into individual synthetic gemstones. Saphhires or rubies can be artificially created using the deceased cremated remains. They are based in New York but receive orders internationally.

FuneralTimes | 23

This stand also caught the eye of comedian Billy Connolly who was attending the show on the second last day. He was filming for a new ITV Documentary on Death. A fascinating character to see on stage or on the television, he is even more so in real life. We chatted about my book, this magazine and the convention and he revealed himself to be cynical of it all.

I personally think its ok to be cynical because that means you have an opinion and to have an opinion is a step in the journey of preplanning your own end of life celebration. It will be an interesting documentary especially to see what angle he will take on it; the humorous or the factual.

I extended an invite to Mr Connolly to the Under 40’s night which was that evening, knowing full well he was outside the bracket but I wanted him to, as I did, experience something so surreal to anyone outside of the funeral industry; funeral directors and service providers having the time of their lives. The under 40’s night was full of laughter, dancing,

drinks, chat, music, chat and many, many more drinks and didn’t end until the wee hours of the morning. It was the social highlight of the convention for me but that is not to say that the International night, the Boot Scootin Bash, and the Welcome Party did not live up to expectations. Each and every event was well organized and great networking opportunities.

Promotion of the NFDA’s 2014 convention in Nashville was in full swing at this year’s convention in Austin and I can imagine planning for it has already begun. I expect countless more coffins of all shapes, sizes and colours, creative memorial products, new on and off line services, fascinating businesses led by the most innovative people, colourful displays, rambunctious nights out and networking to beat the band.

They say everything is bigger in Texas but I feel that maybe that could have just been a coincidence this year and the NFDA’s new convention tagline might be ‘Go big or go home’.

NFDA hosts International Convention & Expo in Austin, Texas T he National Funeral Directors Association hosted their International Convention & Expo in Austin, Texas from 20th – 23rd October.

Glyn Tallon, Tallon Mortuary Specialists, Navan, Co. Meath, was selected via the NFDA Committee to attend as International Guest Speaker on the subject of Post Mortem Reconstruction and the ethos of “Open-Casket Viewing”.

Glyns presentation was delivered over two days within the arranged seminar programme to an extensive audience of professionals working within the funeral sector, including funeral directors and embalmers with much emphasis focused on the importance of viewing a deceased loved one in assisting a positive transition through the five stage bereavement process and highlighting the positive business benefits in providing this specialist service in addition to the range of services that are currently provided.

24 | FuneralTimes

The presentation captured an evident interest and enthusiasm from attendees and feed-back received indicated a definite drive forward for the future not alone to promote an opencasket, but also the need for more trained professionals who can provide such specialist skills for the families whom they are called to serve.

BIE News Greetings to all T

he Funeral Times Trade show took place in Citywest Hotel and we were delighted to be a part of a funeral trade show that had every aspect of the funeral trade represented.

It was a huge success which not only met the expectations of all who took part, but also of all those who had the pleasure of being there.

It was just truly impressive and I am sure it will be a event that we the BIE hope to be a part of in future.

BIE National President Scott Grigsby and Ray Hood represented our stand at the trade show and were helped by committee members of the Irish Division and volunteer members who offered their support and time to the event. Thanks to all of those for their endeavour to promote the BIE. Our fundraising co-ordinators Barbara Fowley and Ger O’Sullivan did tremendous work both leading up to the event and throughout.

The Irish Division held their meeting at Citywest Hotel with The Northern Ireland Division. The joint meeting was attended by the National President, Scott Grigsby and Ray Hood. It was a fantastic meeting and enjoyed by all who attended. Scott Grigsby made Presentations of certificates to Shaun Murphy and Natalie Ryan who recently qualified. We wish them every success in their future career.

Scott also invited Craig Caldwell, Managing Director of the Dodge Company Ltd UK, to address the meeting.

Billy Doggart gave an account of the formation of the Irish Division and we thank him for his input to the meeting.

Glyn Tallon and Barbara Fowley were selected as representatives for the consultative group with the Irish Association of Funeral

Directors. We will keep members up to date on issues that arise.

In other news we heard from Shane Hennelly of Thompson Insurance Company who are offering Profession Indemnity Insurance across the board to all members at a very competitive rate and offer this on an individual and also group scheme basis. We thank Shane and all at Thompson Insurance for their presentation. On the need and significance of this type insurance, we hope that members will avail of this opportunity.

Also Dympna Coleman and Jay Coleman from RIP.ie made a short but very informative presentation at the meeting keeping members up to date on the awareness of their site with practical information on rip.ie site re embalming and a full list of BIE members in Ireland. They are also setting up a new site in Northern Ireland and informed members of this and offered to place the same information on that site with a full list of members. We wish Rip.ie the very best of success in the future and a special word of thanks for their help and support in providing this information to the general public.

Following our meeting, a social evening was held and attended by BIE members, exhibitors, sponsors and special guests.

Scott Grigsby, National President took the opportunity to address all in attendance and following this entertainment was availed of by all.

To put it in short, Scott Grigsby gave an outstanding speech, conveyed with excellence and enjoyed by all in attendance. Well done Scott.

In other news national council representative FuneralTimes | 25

John Hawe attended the national council meeting at Anubis House, Knowle and will report back at our next meeting. We express gratitude to John for his continued support on behalf of the members On behalf of the BIE members of Irish division we extend our deepest sympathy to our member Siobhan Hennessy MBIE (Clonmel, Co. Tipperary) on the death of her

father, Tom Hennessy IAFD Funeral Director, Waterford City whose passing occurred recently. Tom was a very well known and highly respected funeral director throughout the island of Ireland and we offer our sincere condolences to his son Tom, daughters Anne, Mary, Rebecca, Theresa and Siobhan, sisters, brothers, grandchildren and extend relatives.

May He Rest In Peace

Trade Show a tremendous success We must kindly acknowledge the Citywest Hotel and Conference Centre which was a top class venue for the trade show and meetings.

Appreciation also to the exhibitors, sponsors, speakers and those providing presentations and demonstrations over the event. Thanks so much to all who took the time to visit BIE stand. And as BIE Irish division organised a raffle, we also kindly acknowledge all those who supported the raffle, both sponsors and those who purchased tickets. Funds raised will be used to further educate our members and keep their skills up to date.

A huge effort was made by all at Funeral

Times to run this trade show. We wish Graham Brown, editor of the Funeral Times, Conor MacCarrick, Ruth McQuillan, Vikki Crangle, Paula Hanna, the editorial team and all concerned at Funeral Times every success in the future. They deserve it. We appreciate the enormous effort made by them - thanks once again.

If there are any members who wish to make contact they can e-mail at aidanwalsh05@ eircom.net, and I will do my best to assist the member who has any difficulty. Do not hesitate to contact me.

Aidan Walsh

Note date for calendar Conference and Annual General Meeting for BIE is to be held at the Marriott Hotel, Heathrow, Windsor on the weekend of 25th - 27th April, 2014

Congratulations to all prize winners of the raffle Stephen Collier Funeral Directors, Bray, Co. Wicklow Robert Cunningham, Clonsilla Village, Dublin Pat McElvaney MBIE, Church Square, Monaghan Eddie O’Keeffe Funeral Director, Buttevant, Co. Cork Nathan Fowley, Rathfarnham, Dublin James Brown Funeral Services, Belfast Brian McElroy Funeral Director, Crumlin, Dublin 26 | FuneralTimes

Irish Division calendar of Events Notice of AGM and 1st Quarterly meeting on the 19th January 2014 in the Ospray Hotel, Naas, Co. Kildare.

National President Mr Scott Grigsby attended the Presentation of Certificates to Natalie Ryan and Shaun Murphy who recently qualified from Glyn Tallon Mortuary Specialists and School Of Embalming.

On behalf of the Irish Division we take this opportunity to thank all for their support and help throughout the year.

We wish everyone A Very Happy Christmas and The Very Best for 2014.

List of BIE Officers and appointed representatives for 2012/2013 National President: Scott Grigsby R.A. Adams Ltd 117 High Street, Rayleigh, Essex SS6 7QA Mobile: 01268 743102 Imm. Past President: Phil Hoggarth Mobile: 07900 162477 philhoggarth@aol.com National PRO & National General Secretary: Mrs Karen Caney FBIE White Meadow Cottage, Brailsford, Derby DE6 3DA Tel: 01332 349035(BIE) Mobile: 07786 432014 karencaney@btopenworld.com National Treasurer: Michael Liddle MBIE 10 Yew Tree Close, Silsoe MK45 4EQ Business Tel: 01582 490005 Home Tel: 01525 860117 michael@silsloe.wanadoo.co.uk Editor: Gwen Schofield MBIE 9 Seymour Walk, Meltham, Holmfirth HD9 4BP Home Tel: 01484 851994 Mobile: 07778 279100 gwen.schofield@ntlworld.com

Master Fellow: Ken Morgan FBIE “Evergreens”, 36 Coley Road, Little Haywood, Stafford ST18 0UW Home Tel: 01889 881223 Business Tel: 01902 878425 Mobile: 07970 831760 k.m.morgan@virgin.net Student Liaison Officer: Timothy Cain MBIE Hillcrest, 38 Main Street, Ashby de la Launde LN4 3JG Home Tel: 01526 321396 jackie@lymn.co.uk

Irish Division National Council Rep & Secretary: David Ryan 4 Tara Court Green, Proudstown Road, Navan, Co. Meath Tel: 087 2610715 david_ryan_6@hotmail.com Chairperson: Aidan Walsh Cappoquin, Co. Waterford Mobile: 00353 87 2847831

Vice Chairperson and National Education Representative: Glyn Tallon Mortuary Specialist 14 Academy Street Navan Co Meath Tel:046 9029134 Mobile: 086 826 8876 Treasurer: Mrs A O’Reilly MBIE Church Street, Newmarket, Co. Cork Telephone: 029 60142 annaoreilly4@hotmail.com National Council Representative: Mr John Hawe MBIE 12 Meadow Vale, Smith’s Road, Charleville, Co. Cork Home Tel: 00353 6389280 Mobile: 087 6390087 jmhawe@eircom.net Fund Raising Committee: Ms Barbara Fowley MBIE Mobile: 086 191 1022 and Mr Ger O’Sullivan MBIE Mobile: 086 021 5075

FuneralTimes | 27

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Funeral Trade show interest in Air Creative

T

here’s only one thing worse than a smelly environment, and that’s cloying, synthetic scents used to mask it.

Odours impact the way we feel; smells are evocative and provocative, and nobody wants to linger in an oddly-smelling environment.

Air Creative is a 100% natural solution to the problem of unpleasant smells, and uses an entirely natural process to neutralise air.

Using a patented product called Airomex™, the system removes nasty smells completely and safely, replacing them with naturally pleasant aromas.

The tremendous response Air Creative got at the Trade Show and results of recent trials confirm their belief that this is something that will help the funeral industry to enhance their service to bereaved families.

Air Creative have trialled their products in Funeral Homes, in Cork and Dublin and the owners were delighted with the results and went on to purchase the product.

Name: Liam O’Connor Company: Air Creative The firm is now rolling out its products to the industry and offers the following: • FREE Estimate on Request • FREE Site Survey • FREE Trial Rental options are available from as little as €1.30 per day. Once the air has been neutralised, and you have a ‘blank canvas’ to work with, you can then add what is known as Aroma Marketing - releasing positive messenger scents; - again they’re all natural - into the air. Only the purest of essential oil combinations are used, and solutions can be designed for any situation.

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The system refines the air through three stages by: 1. Dust partical removal 2. Odour neutralising using Airomex 3. Positive messages using Essential oils

For more information on how we can improve your environment’s health to productivity, leave your details on: 021 2309388. Delivering scents that make sense for cents.

t: 021 230 9388 / info@aircreative.ie / www.aircreative.com

FuneralTimes | 33

Are you thinking of selling your funeral business?

Dignity would like to talk to you if you are thinking of selling your business.

We are the country’s largest provider of funeral related services. We have been quoted on the London Stock Exchange since 2004 with considerable success. We have cash immediately available without recourse to third parties.

The decision to sell your business is a huge one. Something you will only do once.

So why choose Dignity?

1. We are funeral people. It’s all we do. We are obsessive about the standard of service we offer the families we serve and over 98% of them say they would recommend us to family or friends.

2. You will deal directly with a main board director who has complete authority to agree all terms. In other words you will be dealing principal to principal.

The result is a quick and simple transaction.

3. We have acquired more family funeral businesses in the UK in the last ten years than anyone else. A significant number have been very well known businesses and we will be glad to give you references so that you can talk to people who have dealt with us. Hopefully they will tell you that we are straightforward to deal with, and keep our promises.

4. We have a national presence and are able to acquire businesses in nearly all parts of the UK. Please call Andrew Davies, Operations Director or Mike McCollum, Chief Executive.

Between us we have over 45 years of funeral experience and will be delighted to deal with you in the strictest confidence without any obligation.

Please contact in confidence: Mike McCollum, Chief Executive or Andrew Davies, Operations Director Dignity plc Plantsbrook House 94 The Parade Sutton Coldfield West Midlands B72 1PH Tel: 0121 354 1557 mike.mccollum@dignityuk.co.uk andrew.davies@dignityuk.co.uk 34 | FuneralTimes

Building on a traditional brand S

. Sheals & Son is a long established coffin business operating from Co. Down which has built a reputation for quality and reliability. So, when Ryan Sheals decided to promote a new identity for the business he was well aware that he had to get the balance just right in emphasising an efficient, modern firm utilizing the best new technology without detracting from the traditional reputation.

Ryan comes from a marketing background having worked for a number of years as global marketing manager for an international mechanical engineering company. He has a Masters and CIM in advertising/ marketing, digital marketing qualifications and a business management degree. “Our trade is seen as very traditional and old fashioned, and we felt that the new branding and web site should be more modern. A contemporary site designed around the product and service can make business easier for us and for our customers. Our focus was on having a site which helped funeral directors to work with their bereaved families to choose the ideal coffin. Having the site ipad/iphone optimized for example helps the funeral director to present the options in a professional manner, even when

away from the office and depending on a mobile device.”

Ryan worked closely with Alistair McFarlane and the Sugar Rush Creative team in Belfast. Together they set out to create a modern site with all the functionality which people have come to expect. “The site just happens to sell coffins”, says Ryan, “It uses ‘best practice’ which can be applied to any product”.

Building a brand is about more than a website, and S. Sheals & Son has also launched a high quality brochure giving the firm a clear identity and helping to push forward with marketing and building brand awareness.

The brochure has been designed to be lightweight and easy to carry. “We recognize that most customers will use the brochure to give a representation of the quality and style of coffins and then choose the specific model from the website which can be regularly updated to carry almost our entire range. It has been pleasing that so many of our customers have already requested copies of the new photographs to use in their own brochures”, said Ryan.

The site also allows S. Sheals & Son to increase the reach of their current customer base with enquiries coming in from all parts of Ireland, the UK and beyond.

FuneralTimes | 35

By Mattie Lennon

Like Yis Always Do J

oe left his home in Ballinastockan on a cold dark January morning to walk the six miles to the fair of Blessington. When he got to the Black Banks he heard a BUMPITY, BUMPITY, BUMPITY sound behind him. It continued and at Browe’s Lane the moon appeared through a break in the clouds and what was following him, although it was up-hill, only a coffin, standing on end, bumping from side to side - BUMP, BUMP, BUMP.

He quickened his pace but so did his pursuer.

Armed only with an ash-plant sure what could he do? He continued on, skirting the townland of Kylebeg, through Lacken, Sroughan, Carrig and Knockerin. It was only when he got to the Mill Bank that he overtook his neighbour, Jimmy Norton who was driving two cattle for Paddy Browe. Jimmy was an imperturbable man with a philosophical approach to life who prefaced every statement with, “What I mane to say.”

When Joe told him what was happening Jimmy took a look around and said, “What I mane to say, Joe, I’ll tell you what you’ll do...” before imparting his advice. As they approached Blessington Joe, having taken Jimmy’s advice, went up a lane to the back entrance of McKernan’s Medical Hall.

Although dawn was only breaking his timid knock was opened by the proprietor. Mr. McKernan, a bald, Kapp-and-Peterson pipe smoking man from Warrenpoint, Co. Down. He was always eager to please. And whether it was for a Red Drench or a cure for White Scour any local farmer would tell you, “McKernan is me man.”

Joe made his purchase, came back to the road and approached his follower which had “waited for him.” He took the cork out of the bottle of McKernan’s Cough Mixture, emptied the contents over his tormentor and... the coffin stopped! For some reason or other that 36 | FuneralTimes

reminded me of old Miley Doyle who lived in the backs of Wicklow. Miley was a man who believed that, “landlords were the divil and agents ten times worse” in the sense that he wasn’t ever known to buy anything from a person who was on commission. And he would only visit a retail outlet when absolutely necessary. Get it wholesale was his policy and “cut out the middleman” was the mantra that he drummed into his two sons.

The boys turned out to be extremely parsimonious. A neighbour said of one of them that,”If he had two apples he’d eat one and keep the other for himself. One day old Miley had a heart-attack. And he felt that the sons had absorbed too much of his philosophy when he overheard them discussing the plan to call the undertaker instead of the ambulance, “to cut out the middle-man.”

He talked them out of that one and the Doctor was called but old Miley was on his last legs. Next thing he heard the dialogue from the kitchen, “When he snuffs it we’ll have to get a hearse.”

No, we’ll get the neighbours to carry the coffin.”

“We will not, by the time you’d buy drink for them they’d be dearer than a hearse.”

“I think the hearse is...”

Old Miley interrupted and in his dying voice said; “If I was able at all I’d get up an’ walk to the graveyard to save yis the expense, but I’m not able. So I’ll tell yis what yis’ll de. Put my coffin on the horse’s cart. Go down to the inch and catch the mare, like yis always do. Bring her up an’ yoke her to the cart, like yis always do. Lead her down the lane like yis always do. Tie her to the railings an’ go into Mooney’s for a drink, like yis always do.

Leave me outside with the mare . . . like yis always do.”

Horse drawn hearse specialists

W

D Carriages are a family run business catering to the funeral trade. The firm is based in Derry/Londonderry but distance is no limit as they are available to travel throughout Ireland. The firm’s experienced team delivers a highly personal, professional, confidential, caring and dignified service.

“For our funerals we provide a horse drawn hearse, drawn by a pair of our beautiful, gentle, black ‘Friesians’. They are always presented respectfully with black or white plumes draped in black and purple using remarkable black leather harnesses.”

WD Carriages offer a professional service, hiring horse drawn carriages for all occasions.

The firm will tailor a package to meet every customer’s requirements and will not be beaten on price. Do not hesitate to contact them for further information or a quote.

Contact WD Carriages, T: 02871 361052, M: 07891 347356, 07706 016359, Email: wdcarriages@hotmail.co.uk www.wdcarriages.com

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WD Carriages offer a professional service, hiring horse drawn carriages for all occasions

T: 028 7136 1052 / M: 07891 347356 / M: 07706 016359 E: wdcarriages@hotmail.co.uk FuneralTimes | 37

National Association of Funeral Directors Just another trade association?

think again.

We are listened to The largest funeral sector trade association, representing almost 3,700 funeral homes 80% of UK funeral directors. Our size gives us a respected voice at the highest levels of Government.

We are influential We campaign hard on issues that could affect the sector and are as focused on the needs of our 2,000 small, independent member firms as on those of our larger members.

We’re independent Independent of any single funding body or organisation, we work hard to balance the views and needs of all our members, irrespective of size.

We promote high standards The NAFD Code of practice is client-facing and a guarantee of quality of service.

We are the voice of the profession We bring the funeral service industry together to speak with one voice in the media, to Government and to the general public, your clients.

The Best benefits package in the industry, By far Including ÂŁ5million professional indemnity cover for each member company; a suite of free business helplines and collective buying power, saving our members thousands of pounds every year.

We have an eye on the future We keep members abreast of changes likely to affect their business, creating progressive partnerships which also open up opportunities for them.

We are the association for the funeral sector.

We care about our members, become one today.

If you would like to know more about how we can support your business or would like to join the NAFD, visit our website www.nafd.org.uk or call Su on

0121 711 1343 Ext 20 national association of funeral directors The voice of the profession 618 Warwick Road, Solihull, West Midlands, B91 1AA Tel: 0121 711 1343 email: info@nafd.org.uk

Visit our award winning website at

www.nafd.org

NAFD News The NAFD calls on Government to address local council increases in cremation charges and address growing funeral poverty problem The NAFD has been campaigning hard in the national media, on behalf of both members and the bereaved, throughout the autumn; calling upon the Government to address funeral poverty, to look closely at the unsustainable increases in cremation charges levied by local authorities and to review the proposed Medical Examiner’s Fee. “Tantamount to a tax on death” The NAFD has consistently raised concerns about the mechanics of the proposed new Death Certification process and has met several times with Ministers and officials from the Department of Health, as well as the Local Government Association, to discuss the matter.

The NAFD expressed concerns in September that the proposed new fee for the Medical Examiner’s certificate is unavoidable and is tantamount to a ‘tax on death’ as it will be applicable to all funerals when the Coroner is not involved and would be an additional and unavoidable cost to more than 100,000 bereaved families each year, who prefer to choose burial. The NAFD believes that this proposed new fee is a step too far at a time when more and more people are struggling with household finances. The Government’s own Social Fund funeral payment system is inadequate and less than half of applicants are successful, leaving the bereaved either driven into the arms of payday loan companies or simply failing to pay their funeral bills, leaving funeral directors with increasing and unsustainable levels of debt.

The Government has also not yet established who will legally be liable for paying the new fee.

The National Association of Funeral Directors does not believe that funeral directors should be responsible for collecting a fee for which they have no contractual responsibility and there is a strong suspicion that funeral directors are seen as an easy

potential scapegoat for an unpopular new charge on bereaved families.

“Why are local councils increasing the cost of cremation, well above the rate of inflation?”

In late September the NAFD called upon The Secretary of State for Local Communities to be as worried about local authorities reaping too much money from the bereaved as he is about councils’ "over-zealous and unfair" approach to drivers.

A national survey by BBC local radio in September has revealed that many cemeteries will be full within 10-20 years.

Indeed it is this shortage of space in local authority burial grounds that is a key factor behind the dramatic increases in burial charges levied by local councils - which are driving up the overall cost of a funeral. The recent Cost of Dying Report, revealed that cremation fees are up by 51% since 2007.

The NAFD has asked why local councils are increasing the cost of cremation, well above the rate of inflation, when this is the alternative option to which 75% of families are now turning given the high costs of burial and the pressure on burial space?

Alan Slater, Chief Executive of the National Association of Funeral Directors said: “Surely the Secretary of State should be as concerned about local councils taking advantage of the bereaved, through the huge increases in cremation charges, as they are about councils seeking to increase revenue from parking charges?

“The National Association of Funeral Directors advocates restrictions on what local authorities can charge for burial plots and cremation services to prevent both the current postcode lottery and ensure families have affordable choices in their time of loss.”

FuneralTimes | 39

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always informative

promoting and protecting the future of the independent funeral director

visit us online at www.saif.org.uk for more information

SAIF exists solely to support independent funeral directors throughout the UK, by delivering experienced advice, a powerful lobbying voice, up-to-the-minute information and a superb range of member benefits.

In an increasingly competitive climate SAIF helps you keep an edge by offering: • • • • • •

High value member benefits, services and information Easy access to first class training Recognised member standards for your client’s reassurance Great networking opportunities An experienced and dedicated team National visibility on the SAIF website

Ring us now on 0845 230 6777 or go online at www.saif.org.uk for more information

Enjoy the information we can offer your business The National Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors, SAIF Business Centre, 3 Bullfields, Sawbridgeworth, Herts CM21 9DB

SAIF news ... SAIF news ...

S

AIF have, over recent months, improved and launched new benefits giving Independents even more reason to be in membership and these, together with the many discounted services already on offer, can actually negate membership fee.

EaziApps: Affordable custom built mobile apps through Eazi-Apps – enabling independent funeral directors to communicate and assist clients through their preferred device, the smartphone.

Interflora: Free interflora subscription plus 20% commission.

SAIF Helpline: Offering 24/7 advice and support when it is needed most, plus insurance based assistance for SAIF members and their clients.

SAIFInsure Breakdown: Loss of use for Limousines, Hearses and Ambulances up to 50 days, as of January 1st increasing to 75 days, with a £50,000 loss limit SAIFStone: Insurance cover that has received positive response by SAIF member clients since its launch at the NFE. Streamline: Discounted services for credit

card users with low monthly terminal rental.

The Fuel Card People: Enhanced services which now include GPS mileage capture; CO2 count and discounted fuel at supermarket and motorway petrol pumps.

Windsor Telecom: Disaster recovery if your land line goes down, call statistics and tracking services, to name but a few of the offers available.

There has been lots happening on the SAIF front, all for the benefit of members, and next year we celebrate 25 years of supporting the Independent; a milestone that SAIF is proud of and will be celebrating appropriately. So please join us at the dinner dance on Saturday 25th September 2014 at the Radisson Blu, Stansted, Essex.

Please contact SAIF Business Centre for more information. However before that we have of course the Annual Banquet weekend 14th – 16th March at the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Convention Centre, where all members are invited to attend.

Finally, may we take this opportunity to wish readers Seasonal Greetings and may 2014 prove healthy and successful.

Budget Reaction F

uneral Directors were dismayed by the budget announcement that the Bereavement Grant is to be discontinued in respect of deaths on or after 1 January 2014.

Managing director of Massey Bros. Funeral Directors Freddie Maguire said, “More than 70% of the families we care for are eligible for the Bereavement Grant which contributes €850 towards the cost of a funeral for their loved one. Families coming to terms with the death of a loved one are trying to cope with a range of emotional and practical issues and money is one of them. Discontinuing the Bereavement Grant will only serve to add to their burden and is a cynical move given that those who were eligible only qualified because they had paid their PRSI contributions.”

FuneralTimes | 43

Bridging the gap between religious and humanist service P

adraic Crawley explains how Funeral Directors can benefit by understanding more about a Civil Funeral Ceremony.

It may seem surprising that, in a country renowned for its strong Catholic faith, the popularity of Civil Funerals in Ireland is now beginning to emerge. Having had the opportunity to meet with a large number of rural-based funeral directors at the recent Funeral Times Trade Show in Citywest, Dublin, it is clear that the rise of a more secular society has seen requests for civil funerals increase sizably in the past twelve months.

There is a perception that civil funerals can be managed by anyone who has an aptitude for public speaking. The reality however is entirely different. With over a decade of experience in the funeral trade, I have also been an accredited member of the Institute of Civil Funerals since 2011. There is a period of rigorous training which all Civil Celebrants must undergo before acceptance into the Institute. This is to ensure a consistency of professional service and an understanding of what exactly is required to ensure that the wishes of the bereaved and their families are appropriately met.

So, what is a Civil Funeral? It is defined as; “A funeral that is driven by the wishes, beliefs and values of the deceased and their family; not by the beliefs or ideology of the person conducting the funeral.” In essence, it is a ceremony that is a bespoke service celebrating the life of the deceased, unconstrained by the structure or traditions of a religious service. It is devised by the family, incorporating poems, readings, music and stories which best reflect the person’s life. However, unlike a Humanist

Your customers your profits 44 | FuneralTimes

service, a Civil Ceremony can contain elements of religion if required by the family.

In terms of procedure, the process is not unlike that of a normal funeral. The Civil Celebrant takes the role of the priest or vicar, spending time with the family talking and learning about the life of the deceased person. Working together, a funeral service is devised. Sometimes the role of the Civil Celebrant is simply that of Master of Ceremonies; at others it can be to lead the service including delivering a eulogy. Locations for such services can vary.

Generally they are held in a crematorium, but they can also be held in a funeral home, private house or at the graveside.

As a nation, the Irish have always had a curious interest in funerals. They are occasions when people gather to mourn, to celebrate the life of the deceased and to offer support and sympathy to the bereaved. The tradition of the ‘Irish wake’ is still very much in evidence and the convention of a church funeral has always been very much part of this custom. Now however, Civil Funeral Ceremony can ensure that these traditions are maintained, whilst at the same time honouring the beliefs of the deceased.

Undertakers in Ireland need to be educated about this option for bereaved families. At the recent Funeral Times Trade Show, many were eager to learn more about this option.

Most were unaware that such a service existed, believing that the only options available were either religious or humanist.

The Civil Celebrant looks to bridge that gap for the deceased, by offering a dignified, personal and in many cases spiritual final farewell before interment or cremation.

Delivery of new Jaguar Hearse from Wilcox Limousines Paul Wilcox, of Wilcox Limousines delivering new aluminium Jaguar Hearse to John Fifield of EH Fifield and Padraics Civil CEO Advert_Layout 1 13/08/2013 10:43 a Page 1 Sons to complement their existing fleet, totalling eight Jaguar Hearses and Limousines.

A

s a fully qualified Civil Funeral Celebrant with a wealth of experience, I can provide a sensitive, discreet, and professional service tailored to your requirements. A Civil Funeral Ceremony is for anyone, regardless of their beliefs. There is no set format for a civil funeral ceremony. Each ceremony is unique – as unique as the person who has died; as unique as the life they lived.

It is a ceremony created especially to celebrate their life.

Contact: 087 2676050 Email: padraiccawley2@eircom.net Web: www.iocfireland.org * Covering the East Coast. * References available upon request.

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FuneralTimes | 45

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46 | FuneralTimes

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Horizon Funeral Plans are fully flexible and adaptable to your Funeral Company’s funeral planning style and preferences. Funeral Director friendly features:

1. You price the plan.

Horizon does not set the price. You decide on the projected value of each chosen merchandise and service for then future funeral of each client or each plan.

2. You can offer two options. a. Fixed Contract - ideal for older age group who wants more security and peace of mind. But you still have the option not to guarantee the price and service of other disbursements such as cemetery fees and newspaper announcements. b. Non-Fixed Contract – ideal for those who want to set aside a certain amount towards their future funeral either in part or in full. The value of the plan will be determined by you basing on the requested merchandise or services.

3. Easy Payment Scheme The client may choose from our standard payment options: One-time payment, Annual, Semi-Annual, Quarterly or Monthly instalments. If none of these options suit his/her circumstances, the client may arrange with the authorised Funeral Director to come in with any amount towards the plan at a time/date that suits him/her. * An initial payment of 50% is required to set up a plan. At the time of claim, any excess deposit will be given to the family or any deficit will be paid by the family or estate of the deceased.

Members of DCA Ireland are given exclusive license to sell Horizon Funeral Plans.

Visit our website of phone us to know more about your Membership Benefits.

www.deathcareacademy.ie

Tel: 096-22752 or 096-75290

…

FuneralTimes | 47

Horizon Pre-Need Planning F

uneral directors are not salesmen! We don’t want to be seen as coffin or wreath salesmen but rather we would like to be considered as professionals giving advice to families on how to arrange a fitting send off for their loved-one.

This holds true regarding a Pre-Need Plan, Funeral Plan or Memorial Plan. We are not insurance or preneed agents! We do not want to be selling a plan or a package to a family. We would rather do what we do best - assess the needs of the family, know what they want, advise them on what is practical and organise or facilitate the ceremony or celebration on their behalf.

Horizon Funeral Planning captures this very important yet undervalued aspect of pre-need planning. The term clearly says, pre-need planning and not selling. You may argue that the plan is still being sold. Yes, it is ultimately sold to the client but the key is that the whole event revolves around the planning of a future funeral which is inevitable just as are the costs of the services required for the funeral in the future. The latter, which is the selling part, is just the consequence.

With Horizon pre-need plans, we do not offer neatly wrapped boxes or packages filled with random benefits or services for the family to choose from and hope that an option might come close to what they want. We believe that each person or family is different - with unique needs and preferences.

Horizon funeral plans are personal and individualised, not only for the clients but also for the Funeral Directors. Our funeral plans are client’s needs-based which means that the client only gets and pays for what they want. A client may choose the most expensive coffin and not opt for other third party disbursements or he/she may choose a low-cost casket but would require a long list of extra services or disbursements. There is also no freezing of funeral costs which means that the funeral director can price the plan depending on the projected value or cost of the items or services required by the client. For example, a coffin that is priced at €800 today can be estimated to cost €1100 after 10 years, and this freedom to do the estimated projection of each item or service is given to the funeral director. This in turn is balanced off by a feature of the plan whereby any excess in the savings deposit after the total value of the funeral at the time of claim has been paid to the servicing

48 | FuneralTimes

funeral director, the remaining savings deposit will be paid by Horizon to the family or the plan executor. Another unique feature of the plan that only Horizon offers is the Easy Payment Scheme.

We understand that some people, especially the more traditional members of society from some rural areas of Ireland, may not be capable of paying a fixed amount on regular intervals over a period of time. Rather they would be happier to be given the option of spreading out the payments over a certain number of years and they will be given the option to hand in the payment to their chosen funeral director at a time that suits them. Horizon offers this flexibility to the clients which makes the service more personal for the funeral directors.

Horizon offers two unique plans which offer great flexibility and security to both the clients and the funeral directors. Horizon funeral plans were designed to cater to two target client groups. Our Fixed Plan is aimed at the older age group who want to have the peace of mind and the assurance that when the time comes, they will have a decent send off. People belonging to this group prefer to think that they have everything in place so when the time comes nobody will have to be burdened with funeral bills or arrangements.

The Horizon Non-Fixed Plan is designed to cater mainly to the younger or middle-age group. Our underwriters see the distorted pattern of inflation and the unintelligible rise of cemetery fees and other disbursements. In an effort to balance the need for security of the client’s funeral and the funeral director’s business, our Non-Fixed Plan allows the funeral director to assign the projected pricing of his services and some third party disbursements which will be the fixed part of the plan and the non-fixed part of the plan which will mainly consist of the cemetery fees, are mere projections and will not be the guaranteed part of the plan.

Whichever plan the client signs up for, the amount equivalent to the total funeral cost will be paid directly to the assigned funeral director upon presentation of all necessary documents. Should the total value of the savings deposit be less than the total funeral cost, the family or executor of the plan is liable to pay any difference to the funeral director.

In a case where the total value of the savings deposit is higher than the total funeral cost, any difference will be paid by Horizon to the executor of the plan.

More info available at www.deathcareacademy.ie

Delivery from Fearghas Quinn Hearse and Limousines Eastwoods of Crumlin, Co. Antrim add to their fleet, supplied by Fearghas Quinn Hearse and Limousines

Pearson Repatriation Service (UK) A small independent family run company offering a fast and reliable service 24 hours a day.

As part of our service to you, we can if desired:

• Repatriate the deceased from the UK • Provide a coffin and interior • Provide embalming services

Tel: 01484 844289 Proprietor Clive J Pearson LMBIFD. DIP.FD. MBIE Manchester Road, Marsden, Huddersfield BD7 6EY Telephone: 01484 844289 FuneralTimes | 49

Have you got something to say?

K

ate Hamilton of Mourning Cross has launched www.funeralfriend.co.uk and invites everyone connected to the funeral trade to visit and participate in the site. “funeralfriend.co.uk is for all things funeral related”, says Kate, “It is blog which is quickly growing into the go-to-resource for anyone looking for information about funerals.”

On one day in October the site contained contributions from Chelsea Hanson, a grief educator from the US, a piece about civil funerals penned by Mary Dillon from Wexford and an informative article from Celtic Commemorations about their memorably unique and touching keepsake urns.

“We have contributors and readers from all over the world”, says Kate. “I first got the idea by meeting people at shows and exhibitions.

We all had stories to tell and shared the same problems and opportunities. Networking is very important and, especially for those of us looking for contacts outside Ireland, a blog

seemed the ideal way to make contact with other industry professionals”.

The blog has gone from strength to strength, providing an ideal opportunity to meet like-minded people and to discuss the issues of the day. Kate and her fellow writers have plenty of topics to discuss and would welcome newcomers who enjoy a lively debate and don’t mind sharing their opinions.

Memorial Designer Software Leading software package in the memorial engraving industry

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52 | FuneralTimes

Plant a tree in Memory Now available

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Funeral traffic management products C ombining the experience gained in the temporary traffic management industry along with a grounding in a family run funeral director business, Colm Kieran has designed a range of health and safety products to suit the traffic management needs of the modern funeral director.

The range of products available have been developed by Funeral Director Solutions to be consistent with current road safety codes of practice and are branded to discourage theft and enforce the perception of the funeral director’s image in the community. The use of highly reflective signage also provides directional guidance to first time visitors of wake houses in rural or remote areas.

These products were launched at the recent Funeral Times exhibition in Citywest and received a positive response from funeral directors the width and breadth of the country.

To view the full range of products available log on to www.furneraldirectorsolutions.ie or contact: Colm Kieran 087 6218740, Ray Clarke 086 2623414.

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54 | FuneralTimes

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Live Streaming What's Happening?

Gus Nichols comments on the funeral industry When I was president of FIAT-IFTA, I had the chance to attend numerous trade shows and conferences. Visits to the USA were always interesting, as the American market has learnt to adjust to fundamental changes in their funeral culture, namely, a rapid increase in cremation rates to over 45%, and the loss of revenue from not being able to sell high priced caskets and burial vaults.

The American market sees web development and online sales as being a means to recoup some of their lost revenue. For example, most US funeral directors upload their death notices onto a platform that is provided by ‘Legacy. com’. This platform is linked to many of the US daily newspapers, and those who browse their way onto a funeral directors website to view an online death notice/obituary, are given the opportunity to leave a message of condolence, or post a photograph, or upload a personal message. The family are then given the opportunity to purchase a memorial booklet or DVD, including the content left by others, all published through the website and created remotely. A good idea.

There are numerous companies that assist US funeral directors to provide live online streaming of their funeral services – it is relatively easy to do, as most US funeral services take place in the funeral home. Fixed point camera positions can be installed and funeral home staff can upload the content onto the web. Usually, those who wish to view the service can do so via the funeral directors website – sometimes this is password protected – sometimes not. It works well and it is a good additional service for client-families.

To do this in Ireland is a challenge. Attempts were made 5 or 6 years ago to launch a service, but there were significant technical issues due to very patchy broadband coverage. We are unusual in that, still, most funerals still take place in a church. In Dublin, there are 200 Catholic churches alone, and least another 80 to 90 ‘others’. There are about 20 parishes that have installed a single fixed camera position, usually a broad pan across the altar, and this allows viewers to log on at any time to view the camera feed – whether there is something on in the church or not. The sound quality is not great, but it does allow a funeral to be seen.

And it is free.

But the future is upon us. We were recently contacted by Pat Fogarty of Memorial Lane, who has launched a new service, quite unlike anything done anywhere else. Pat’s company works for the media, TV news in particular. He has the most up-to-date HD live-streaming camera equipment, that can operate without a satellite feed. It is portable, accessible and discreet. The camera pack has the upload capacity of 6 to 7 sim-cards at a single time, and this allows broadcast quality images to be live streamed. Pat’s media company go to newsworthy events around the country and provide FuneralTimes | 55

high quality images for the TV companies. It is a huge leap forward in technical terms and it replaces the need for very expensive and bulky satellite feed trucks.

Memorial lane is able to use this new technology to very good effect at funerals. A skilled, professional camera operator (or two) is able to produce live TV quality images and sound of the funeral. They can also attend the burial or cremation – never possible before.

The service, obviously, is not free but when one considers what it costs for a relative to fly back

from the US, Australia or Asia in a hurry, there is a lot of money to be saved.

We used the services of Memorial Lane at a Dublin funeral, and it was a huge success – the quality of the pictures and sound was very high. It was even more impressive when the burial was filmed as well. Clearly, this service is not for all, but from time to time, we all help a certain type of client-family where this sort of service could be introduced to them.

I recommend a look at their website: www. memoriallane.ie

End Of Life Forum 2013 – Dublin Castle I was very privileged to be asked to introduce the morning speakers at the most recent End of Life Forum Conference, in Dublin.

The BBC foreign correspondent, Fergal Keane gave the Mary Holland Commemorative Lecture, a memorable reflection on his experiences in Africa and South America in relation to murders, military casualties, poverty, aids and how palliative care as we know it, does not exist.

A debate was chaired by RTE news anchor, Brian Dobson, and there were four fascinating contributions from Professor Charles Normand, Edward Kennedy Professor of Health Policy at 56 | FuneralTimes

Trinity College Dublin, economist and journalist Dan O’Brien, Fr Pierce Cormac, Hospital Chaplain in Cork (he spoke about his experiences of dealing with the Tit Bonhomme tragedy in West Cork and mentioned how Robert Gabriel and his team had managed the task facing them so well) and Dr Deirdre Madden, Senior Lecturer in Law, UCC, on the legal complexities of end of life care directives. This high level debate touched on many experiences, we as funeral directors, have day-to-day.

This conference is held every two years and I strongly recommend that it is attended by those of us in funeral service.

GN.

( Paul Roberts )

( Rebecca Daly )

( Alan Harmon )

( Brian McElroy )

www.professionalembalmers.ie

( Gary McCool )

info@professionalembalmers.ie FuneralTimes | 57

Professional Embalmers Association of Ireland

NEWS The Professional Embalmers’ Association of Ireland welcomes its newly elected officers and representatives. The members and the officers are proud to be leaders in embalming standards and continue in promoting excellence in embalming and in all aspects of funeral care.

Joe McNamara (Chairperson)

MPEAI, MEAE, MIAFD Joe is the director of Corrigan and Sons Funeral Directors, Dublin; born into the undertaking business, the fourth generation to run the company. He is a part of an unbroken line of family involvement in a company set up

by Patrick Corrigan in the latter part of the nineteenth century. Currently, he works with three medical schools (UCD, TCD and the Royal College of Surgeons) in Dublin and takes care of the burials or cremations of those who have donated their bodies to medical research.

Joe has earned a Degree in Business in University College Dublin. Afterwards, he started training in embalming at the Midlands Embalming School, Birmingham with J. Lee as tutor. He also earned his Diploma in Funeral Directing in Coventry (R. Pargetter, tutor). He is a Founder Member of the ‘Leinster Division’ the first structured gathering of embalmers in ROI; and subsequently, Founder Member of the ‘Professional Embalmers’ Association’.

To be a good embalmer or funeral director, he believes that temperament is the key, coupled with training and an ability to understand grief and the stages one goes through-loss, denial and acceptance. Joe considers dead persons to be part of the community and therefore approaches the funeral as an inclusive situation; a bringing together of people in healing and reconciliation.

People nowadays are more anxious than ever before about what death looks like, so, as an 58 | FuneralTimes

embalmer, Joe believes that you need to be sensitive to how a person looked in life. There’s a code of ethics around embalming which involves confidentiality and respect for the dead.

The death of someone close is not something that anyone gets over. In fact, it’s something that most people don’t want to get over. Getting over something implies forgetting about it and the last thing you’ll want to do is to forget about your wife, husband, father, mother, brother, sister or friend. This in turn does not mean that someone who has recently been bereaved should live by or in the past. The aim is to accept that they have gone, draw strength from the past and let go of the pain. Joe believes that we embalmers can contribute a lot in easing such grief and in helping people move on.

Martina Burns (Secretary) MPEAI, MEAE, MDCA

“Life is difficult and complicated and beyond anyone's total control and the humility to know that will enable you to survive its vicissitudes.” J.K. Rowling.

Martina always had a huge interest in embalming and the care for the deceased. After finishing her Leaving Certificate, Martina went to Dundalk Institute of Technology (DIT) for two years doing a course in Business studies.

After which, she felt the urgent need of pursuing a career in embalming. In 2002, she enrolled with The Irish College of Funeral Directing and Embalming in Ballina, Co. Mayo where

she received mentorship from Peter J. Ball.

In the course of gaining her qualification in professional embalming practice, she was offered the opportunity to join the team of embalmers and funeral directors in McGowan’s Funeral Home in Ballina, Co. Mayo. She finally gained her Professional Embalming qualification through the European and International Examinations Board of Mortuary Science in December 2006. Since then, Martina has been a Member of the European Association of Embalmers and the Professional Embalmers’ Association of Ireland.

Martina has served as the Secretary of PEAI since 2009. She is also the current Registrar of The Irish College of Funeral Directing and Embalming. For the past 11 years of full time employment as an Embalmer, she has been active in tutoring and providing support to students of the ICFDE. Recently, she has been appointed as the national sales representative of DJ MacNeice & Company Ltd.

as embalmer with O’Connor’s Bros that year.

While living in Cork, Margaret attended evening college courses and studied Hairdressing Theory and Practice in St John’s Central College, Cosmetics with LaBeaute, Manual and Computerised Sage Line 50 Accounts with Cork College of Commerce and Pitman Training. She also enrolled as a member of The Institute of Commercial Management. In 2009, Margaret was elected as treasurer of the Professional Embalmers’ Association. Margaret is currently employed as manager with DJ MacNeice & Co. Ltd in Dublin. Margaret has also recently gained FETAC Level 6 Certification in Instructing Manual Handling. She is currently attending Dublin Business School studying B.A Business Management.

Daniel O’Connor (PRO) MPEAI, MEAE

Daniel is a practicing Barrister.

Margaret Igoe (Treasurer)

MPEAI, MEAE, MICM, MDCA “Education is an admirable thing, but it is well to remember from time to time that nothing that is worth knowing can be taught.” Oscar Wilde.

Margaret started her career in the funeral industry in 2005. She enrolled in the Irish College of Funeral Directing and Embalming with David McGowan and Peter J. Ball as tutors. She began working as a student embalmer for ten months in O’ Connors Bros.

Funeral Directors, Northgate Bridge in Cork under the direction of Mr T. Val O’ Connor.

Margaret qualified as an embalmer in 2007 with the Irish College of Funeral Directing and Embalming.

She became a full member of the Professional Embalmers’ Association and European Association of Embalmers in 2007 after gaining her qualification.

Following her student apprenticeship, she was offered a permanent full time position

PEAI new members

Two more successful student embalmers have recently passed the Final Theory Examination and the Objective Structured Practical Examination (OSPE) conducted by an external examination board, Deathcare Academy Examinations Board of Mortuary Science (DCAEBMS), and have been awarded full membership into the Professional Embalmers’ Association of Ireland.

Rebecca Daly (Walkinston, Dublin 12) and Paul Roberts (Castlebar, Co. Mayo) completed the Embalming Course through The Irish College of Funeral Directing and Embalming with flying colours. Three more members were officially presented the PEAI Full Membership certificates during the PEAI meeting last October - Alan Harmon (Queen Street, Dublin 7), Gary McCool (Ballybofey, Co. Donegal) and Brian Edward McElroy (Crumlin Village, Dublin 11).

PEAI in 2013

This has been another exciting year for all the members of the Professional Embalmers’ FuneralTimes | 59

Professional Embalmers Association of Ireland

NEWS Association of Ireland. This year alone, over 20 new members were awarded full membership into the PEAI. The PEAI has also extended its benefits to selftaught and highly experienced embalmers by approving formal training and qualifications gained through an intensive Upskilling Programme facilitated by The Irish College of Funeral Directing and Embalming and the Deathcare Academy Examinations Board of Mortuary Science.

In May this year, the PEAI meeting and educational event at University College Cork (UCC) was attended by over 60 members with special guests and speaker from the New Jersey State Funeral Directors’ Association. The PEAI has now almost 100 members promoting the best standards of practice in Ireland and abroad.

The officers and representatives of the PEAI

would like to thank all of its members who have contributed and supported the association and have dedicated themselves to performing the highest standard of practice possible and in line with the PEAI’s Code of Professional Conduct.

The PEAI would like to especially express its sincere gratitude to the invaluable efforts of one of its founding members and out-going Chairperson, Mr David McGowan. David has never ceased to give his all-out support to the PEAI and all its members.

Finally, the PEAI wishes you, your family and your staff the Merriest Christmas and a very Prosperous 2014!

Visit us at www.professionalembalmers.ie

Civil Funerals Ireland Simple, unique, personal funeral services

• An alternative to the traditional • Celebrating Life • Reflecting the wishes and beliefs of the deceased and their loved ones • Provides an opportunity to pay a fitting tribute • Any suitable venue can be used

Mary Elizabeth Dillon is available between 9am - 11pm 7 days a week Tel ROI: 053 938 9089 / Mobile: 087 957 4476 Email: info@civilfuneralsireland.com

Funerals conducted throughout Ireland

60 | FuneralTimes

Curtis Coffins Ltd takes a new step forward...

N

ew Designs, New Website, New Catalogue and to round it off was the perfect opportunity to showcase our work at the Funeral Times Trade show on the 1st & 2nd of October at Citywest Hotel in Dublin. A chance to reunite with our existing customers and an opportunity to proudly display our Irish crafted coffins and caskets for the many visitors to the show.

In what has traditionally been a busy time of year after the summer holiday period at Curtis Coffins, we embarked on implementing new designs, a new catalogue and to complement that, a complete revamp of our website (www. curtiscoffins.ie) to capture the quality and elegance of our Irish crafted products which makes it easier for clients both new and old to view highly detailed images of our products to aid their decision making.

Over the two day event at the Funeral Times Trade show the feedback and comments we received on our displays and on the products themselves once again copperfastened the pride that the Curtis Coffins team takes in their work.

The finished products are a testament and reflection of the way that pride and quality is never compromised. To hear the remarkable comments from our existing loyal customers and also from new customers, makes the hard work and effort put in by all of the team at Curtis Coffins worthwhile.

To celebrate the launch of our new designs, catalogue and website we also offered attendees at the Funeral Times Trade Show the opportunity to enter our free draw on each day to win Carlton Hotel vouchers.

The winners of the vouchers were: Ian Smith from John Smith Funeral Directors, Portaferry, Co. Down and Peader Farrelly, Farrelly Funeral Directors, Slane. Co. Meath. Congratulations to both.

Following on from the success of the Funeral Times Trade show we have embarked on setting up a new showroom as part of our plans for 2013 which we hope to have ready shortly.

We would like to thank Funeral Times for a very professionally executed event and welcome on board to our new customers who placed orders with us over the two days and afterwards. It has been a great experience and opportunity for Curtis Coffins to exhibit the quality work we do and a chance to show true Irish Craftsmanship at work.

Curtis Coffins Ltd. Bohernamoe Ardee Co. Louth Ireland Telephone: +353 416853208 Mobile: +353 87 0624014 Email: info@curtiscoffins.ie www.curtiscoffins.ie

We wish all our customers a merry Christmas and a peaceful new year FuneralTimes | 61

Â

Advertorial

The new loose leaf condolence book from Esposti We may have seen you at the Funeral Times Trade Show in Dublin last month but for those readers who are not familiar with Esposti Ltd, we are designers, manufacturers and distributors of quality social books, which includes an extensive range of ‘Sympathy books’.

We have customers who include them as part of their service and others who offer them as an additional sale to their customers.

At the Trade Show in Dublin we launched our NEW Loose Leaf Condolence Book, both the concept and design were very well received by the visitors to our stand. Please see the product images.

The concept is simple - all pages are removable by unscrewing two finger tight screws which secure the binding. Once the pages have been signed they can then be secured inside the book by replacing the screws.

The advantage of this design is that several pages can be left in

more than one place for attendees to sign at the funeral or afterwards, during the wake and then collected and reassembled

received; an additional feature is a pocket inside the back cover to keep an order of service, cards and letters safe in one place.

If you would like further information about our Sympathy Book range or wish to place an order for any of our books please do not hesitate to contact us.

Email: sales@esposti.co.uk Tel: +44 208 2161980 Fax: +44 207 2161970

Esposti Ltd

Unit 2 Newswell House, 21 Lockfield Avenue, Enfield, Middlesex, EN3 7PG into the book once again. The page layout is simple, a space on each line is provided to write the name and a brief message/ memory. With 16 lines per page and 50 pages supplied with each book, there is plenty of space for everyone to pay their respects. The final hidden touch is an expandable pocket inside the back cover for the bereaved to keep an order of service, letters, floral tribute cards etc. For safe keeping this unique book is supplied in a presentation box with black lid and white bottom.

Other titles within our range include Book of Remembrance, In Loving Memory, In Memory, Condolences and Condolence Book. Our books are produced using high grade papers and quality cover material, each book is supplied in a nicely finished presentation box for safe keeping.

These wonderful keepsakes contain plenty of pages for names and messages from relatives, friends and colleagues as well as sections for the bereaved to keep a record of cards and letters, flowers & donations

Introducing a new, modern and innovative plan from Golden Leaves

A more attractive proposition • • • • • • •

A unique plan providing high payouts on maturity High indexation applied annually to the plans No marketing levy to the F/D Totally transparent pricing Fastest cover of any FMP 50+ funeral plan Only 50+ plan to provide a rebate on any overpayment Better value for you and your clients To have these plans assigned to your funeral business or to enquire about offering these plans to your families contact us on 0800 85 44 48 or email: info@goldenleaves.com

Come and meet us at the FUNERAL TIMES TRADE SHOW, DUBLIN 1st & 2nd October 2013 Proud to be supporting

FPA

In partnership with National Association

NAPFP .

.

.

.

For Pre-Paid Funeral Plans

FUNERAL PLANNING AUTHORITY REGISTERED

The FROM50 funeral plan, a better pre paid proposition for you and your families? We believe so...

I

am sure that every funeral director that reads this article will be acutely aware of the concept of Funeral Planning, precisely why it is important for not only future business growth but also for the benefit of the families served by that business. So why should you waste your time reading about this all new pre paid product?

The FROM50 funeral plan is so different to ANY other plan available to the general public because it provides a range of benefits, both to the Funeral Director and the plan holder that are not available from any other pre paid product in the United Kingdom. It is unique, groundbreaking and this is why you should take the time to look at this product with a fresh pair of eyes and make your own informed decision.

The FROM50 funeral plan was devised

by Golden Leaves to be the first of its kind!

It was designed to allow an individual who wanted a funeral plan to select one and pay for it like a life insurance. With zero deposit upfront and low monthly payments that will never increase during their lifetime, ever. But unlike all funeral insurances, it allows the purchaser to specify the funeral service required and to concrete the costs relevant to today’s prices. It is cheaper than other over50’s products on the marketplace too with regards to the monthly premiums, which makes it massively better value for the same services and covers the purchaser on average 1.5 years faster than the

competition. It sounds almost good to be true doesn’t it!

Well, add to that the fact that if you pay more in to the plan than the plan pays out and your next of kin or estate will be eligible for a rebate of some, if not all, of the overpayment amount, and you will see what all the fuss is about.

For your Funeral Director business, unlike all insurances – you can actually offer this product to your families for a healthy commission that doesn’t affect the final payout to you at need. The plan is indexed to rise at 3.25% every year and the disbursement contribution of £1000, is precisely that, a contribution – so any risk with regards to third party expenses is mitigated. It is cheaper than other 50+ plans, yet the Funeral Director will receive a higher payout on maturity than we believe is provided by anyone else.

If you would like to talk to us about offering this groundbreaking plan to the families and communities you serve – call us on freephone 800 85 44 48 and ask for details - or enquire online on www.from50funeralplans.com

FuneralTimes | 65

+353 - 18828731 sales@djmacneice.com

37A Barrow Road, Glasnevin Estate, Dublin 11 Tel: (+353) 18878231 Email: sales@djmacneice.com 66 | FuneralTimes

An Insight into the Death Care Academy of Ireland Who is the Death Care Academy?

The Death Care Academy of Ireland is an organisation set up under the guidance of professionals within the funeral, health & safety and counselling sectors of Ireland. Its aim is to provide an opportunity to learn and develop new skills for those within the funeral sector, as well as other organisations whom during their line of duty touch on death and bereavement in some form.

The DCA through its learning and development programmes will work to raise and improve the standards of practice within the funeral sector through providing industry specific training to those that wish to learn, develop and implement skills that will provide them with the qualifications and knowledge necessary to improve on their standards of care of the deceased, the bereaved and those that work directly in the funeral sector of Ireland.

DCA has carried out a recent survey of the funeral industry within Ireland and believe that there is now a greater understanding and need to have the industry regulated. However we also feel that it is imperative that any regulation or Code of Practice for the Industry developed should seriously take into account the traditional burial practices of rural Ireland and we hope that through our education programmes that the DCA in fact will begin to “self-regulate” the industry while insuring that all current legislation regarding Health & Safety and Employment laws are adhered to.

Why should you subscribe to DCA?

Direct access to industry specific training/ courses We are dedicated to providing training in funeral specific courses to anyone interested in learning and improving skills necessary to the improvement of standards of care of the deceased, the bereaved and those that work directly and indirectly in death care.

Horizon Pre-Need Plan We are offering a Funeral Planning scheme that is flexible and adaptable to your own Funeral business.

It is client’s needs based, with no freezing of funeral costs, meaning clients only pay for what they want and you value the plan according to your own pricing and charges.

Up-to-date research We have access into large organizations outside of Ireland such as Europe and USA providing updates on current issues arising in the funeral industry i.e. health & safety control, bio-hazard controls and infectious controls.

Up-to-date information on proposed changes or amendments We keep our members up to date on new/existing regulations in Ireland, UK & Europe. This affords members the time needed to adjust their practices in line with these issues or regulations.

Promote your services through our website We have a general public section on our website where all members are listed. Contact details for members can be obtained from here by the public.

What courses do we offer?

1. Embalming Course (The Irish College of Funeral Directing and Embalming) 2. Funeral Professional Psychology – Grief and Your Work 3. Up-skilling Course in Embalming (ICFDE) 4. Advanced Certificate in Mortuary Cosmetology 5. Restorative Art and Cosmetics 6. Funeral Traditions in Ireland 7. Manual Handling – Funeral Industry Specific 8. Safe Handling of Mortuary Chemicals 9. Universal Precautions The application for registration for the Manual Handling Course is now closed. We will be accepting applications again in January 2014. We will be posting the training calendar for 2014 on our website by January next year. Please visit our website for updated opening dates for all courses.

The Death Care Academy of Ireland wishes to promote Ireland as the leaders of Europe in improving standards and establishing Codes of Practice within Funeral & Embalming Services.

For further information visit our website www.deathcareacademy.ie or email info@deathcareacademy.ie or call 096 75290.

FuneralTimes | 67

FUNERAL SUPPLIES

www.cplsupplies.com • sales@cplsupplies.com UK: 02881671247 ROI: 04881671247

@cplsupplies

W ❄ NE

❄

CPL have released an additional

attachment for their complete range

of X-Lifters Features:

✖ All stainless steel ✖ The rollers are designed in house

by CPL and adjust to accommodate various body trays. ✖ The brake for the tray is also manufactured in house.

X-lifter

✖ Tilting function

Browse our full range at www.cplsupplies.com or call us to arrange a free demonstration 68 | FuneralTimes

THANK YOU ! ...from all at CPL Supplies Great to see so many of you at the recent Funeral Times Trade Show.

If you didn’t pick up our brochure please call (028 816 71247) text (07730409000) or email (sales@cplsupplies.com) us your details and we will be happy to forward a copy to you.

Alternatively please visit our website to download your free copy today.

From, The team at CPL

CPL

THE STIRRUPS

Uses: • To carry a Coffin, Stretcher, Body Bag or Body Mat by the side • Eliminates the need to stoop • To lift a body into or out of a coffin/shell • To inter ashes • To manoeuvre a coffin in awkward places, such as stairs • To lower a coffin into a grave • Compatible with any existing overhead gantry or manual hoist • With CPL Body Mat and CPL Cradle and attachments

Browse our full range

Patent Pending Patent App. No. 1306153.6

FuneralTimes | 69

Dr Bill Webster When things go wrong!

I

t was the worst Christmas she could remember.

Just one short year ago, things had seemed to be going so well for her. The kids were growing up absolutely great, and she felt so blest that her family was intact and happy. Life was good.

But how quickly her world seemed to have fallen apart! Her teenage daughter became pregnant out of wedlock, and now, at the time when her grandchild was to be born, the couple was forced to be away from home, far from her motherly care.

Her maternal heart almost broke as she sat there that Christmas, contemplating how cruel life can be. It would be a not so jolly Christmas for her, trying to figure out where it had all gone so wrong.

It could be the script for a Hollywood movie, couldn’t it! But what I am describing is a true story about people of whom you have heard. It actually happened on the very first Christmas of all. Have you ever wondered how the mother of Mary, grandmother of Jesus, must have felt that first Christmas season?

How difficult it must have been for ... hey, we don’t even know her name. There was talk about how Mary had been “highly favoured” by God, yet I am sure her mother had to look hard to see any blessing for her in the situation. This woman lost her daughter. There had been the thought of “putting her away quietly” to avoid the social embarrassment of the pregnancy, but that was avoided by the gracious

70 | FuneralTimes

actions of Joseph who married her. But there had been the loss of reputation and social acceptance, as well as the hopes and dreams she had held for her family.

And then, to add insult to injury, just when the baby was about to be born, the couple had been forced to go to Bethlehem for the census. Sense–LESS, she must have thought. Just when a daughter needs Mom the most, and when Mom herself wants to be there to help, circumstances took her away. In fact, with the news reports that came back from Bethlehem, she wasn’t sure when or if she would ever see daughter or grandchild again.

No forwarding address, phone number, text or e mail location. Just the human uncertainty. I can just imagine her sitting there that first Christmas, wondering how life could go so wrong so quickly. How could something that had started with so much promise fall apart in such a short time? It just didn’t seem fair.

It is a classic story of grief. Many today can identify with Mary’s mother, whether their experience is a death, an illness, or a situation beyond their control. For people who have experienced a loss, this Christmas might seem like more a battle than a blessing. As it was for Mary’s mother, this is going to be a not-so-jolly Christmas.

Grief after a significant loss is one of the most difficult human experiences. We have books, and seminars and even TV programmes helping us to understand

grief and strategies to enable us to “work through” the process.

Yet words cannot begin to express the depths of the feelings we have when someone WE care about dies, or we experience OUR loss. It is painful beyond description. When my wife Carolyn died in 1983, I wondered if the pain would ever go away. All I can tell you is that it does diminish, and you find ways of getting through, yet it often is a much bigger challenge than people who haven’t been through it would realize. Christmas, with the hype of “the season to be jolly”, can be one of the most painful reminders of what we have lost.

One of my favourite Christmas traditions is to watch “The Christmas Carol” on TV. Now I’m not talking about the more modern movies, or the musical, or Muppet version. I’m talking about THE Christmas Carol movie, black and white version, featuring the consummate Scrooge played

by Alistair Sim. I used to get up at all the ungodly hours to watch that movie until I was able to buy my own video a few years back.

We all know the story of Scrooge. He is visited on Christmas Eve by 3 spirits, the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future. And what he learns that night gives him the wisdom and the desire to change things. “Are these the things that must be, or can they be changed” he cries.

Well certain things must be because they are in the past, but he learns that it is never too late to appreciate the present and to change the future.

In many ways Scrooge, too, is a picture of a grieving person. He certainly lost his beloved sister, Fan, to death, and that affected him profoundly. Then he lost the love of his one true love and the respect of his old employer Mr Fuzziwig. All these ongoing losses seemed to affect him a little less each time. Then his partner, Jacob Marley dies and Scrooge’s already cold heart seems strangely unmoved. Scrooge suffers many losses on his way to success, but what he really loses is himself.

What brings him to himself? The ghost of Christmas past reminds him of all that had

For people who have experienced a loss, this Christmas might seem like more a battle than a blessing made life so wonderful ... family, friends, the good times. Scrooge remembers the way things were. Christmas is always a time of many memories, and those can soften even the hardest heart as we remember times gone by, other better Christmases.

Yet, after a loss, Christmas present may not stack up too well against Christmas past. I remember a song that was popular when I was a boy: “All I want for Christmas is my 2 front teeth.” Well, I know that if I were to ask any grieving person all they want for Christmas, I think I know what it would be. All I wanted for Christmas 1983 was my wife back, for life to be back to normal, the way things were last Christmas or a few years before.

And yet, even though this Christmas may not be so jolly, can we be thankful for SOMETHING? Of course we are sad because someone you care about is absent, or if your situation has changed, and that is natural. But can we be thankful for the years we did have and the memories you still share? Celebrate what you HAVE as well as realizing what you’re missing.

Someone may be missing, but are there people who WILL be there this year for whom you can be thankful? Don’t allow looking back at the past to spoil what you have in the present. Yes, you miss the person who will not be there, but are there children, relatives and friends you can enjoy today? It may not cancel out your sadness but it certainly makes it easier.

FuneralTimes | 71

It is important to hold on to hope. You may not be able to see it, and you may not even be sure you can believe it today, but hold on to hope that there will be days that are brighter. When a famous Scottish artist was asked to paint a picture representing “Hope”, he labored diligently on the masterpiece. But when the drawing was finally unveiled, those who had come to see the work were astounded. For he had depicted hope as a woman in tattered clothes, a battered and bowed figure, playing a harp which had only one solitary string left intact.

Yet the woman was portrayed as plucking on that one string with unbounded determination and zeal. That is hope. When buffeted by the trials and tribulations of life, hope plays on the only strings left to it.

All of us have times when we feel that our lives haves been battered and broken by cruel circumstances. Don’t spend all your time looking at the broken strings.

72 | FuneralTimes

What are the ones that are still intact?

You may have had a devastating loss, and nothing and no-one should minimize the importance or the difficulty of that. But you haven’t lost everything. Even though you may feel that you have lost a lot, you can find ways to make the most of what you have left.

So that first Christmas which so many of us think of with great sentiment was not so great for Mary’s mother. We can only speculate what this lady’s thoughts and feelings might have been. But Mary made a choice too. When she heard the word of God she obeyed, knowing that her own sacrifice and struggle would result in salvation for a needy world.

Life will go on. Although it may not make you feel any better right now, it is important to hold on to that hope.

And like Mary’s mother, may you find it to be true.

(Follow Dr Bill’s daily Inspirational Thought on Twitter @drbillwebster)

GM at the Trade Show G

M Canopies wish to thank all our established clients and new clients who visited our exhibition stand at the Funeral Times Trade Show and Exhibition held at the Citywest Hotel and Conference Centre, Tuesday 1st and Wednesday 2nd October 2013.

The provision of a progressive quality funeral service is a priority for all professional funeral directors. We at GM Canopies believe that the provision of a quality shelter for bereaved relatives during inclement weather conditions is an extension of this service.

GM Canopies are the sole distributors in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland for ‘Vitabri’ Les Stands, one of Europe’s leading companies

manufacturing quality portable aluminium stands, tables and display units.

The English translation for the French word ‘Vitabri’ is ‘quick shelter’. The canopy can be erected in 60 seconds!! Yes one minute!! Our canopies are ideal for use outside Funeral Homes, the family wake house and at the graveside during interment.

The canopies are available in fourteen frame sizes and the roof covers are available in nine colours and two formats, Fire retardant PVC and Polyester.

GM Canopies 183 Tamlaght Road Omagh Co Tyrone BT 78 5LL Tel: 00 44 28 82244025 Fax: 00 44 28 82243338 Mob: 00 44 777 8345074 www.gmcanopies.com e.mail: gmcanopies@btinternet.com

GM Canopies GM Canopies is the sole distributor in N. Ireland and the Rep. of Ireland for Vitabri canopies, tables and accessories.

Vitabri canopies are manufactured in fourteen sizes and thirty-three colours.

Our graphics and printing department can design and print to your exact specifications.

183 Tamlaght Road, Omagh, Co. Tyrone BT78 5LL Tel: 028 8224 4025 Fax: 028 8224 3338 (Rep. of Ireland. prefix 048) Email: gmcanopies@btinternet.com www.gmcanopies.com FuneralTimes | 73

New Brook York catalogue

T

from popular web site www.brookyork.com. “Busy funeral directors can browse at a time which suits them”, said Julie, “And the site allows them to select from hundreds of products for work and casual wear. We are constantly widening our range and can cater for dinner suits, dress shoes, dinner shirts, casual jackets and trousers, blazers and knitwear”.

Call 0845 257 4305 to speak to Lin or Julie or order online at www.brookyork.com

Tel: 0845 2574305 Web: www.brookyork.com Email: info@brookyork.com 74 | FuneralTimes

Call for a Brochure

he new Brook York catalogue is now out and carries more ‘must have’ items than ever before for the funeral trade.

The Brook York brand has been trusted by funeral industry professionals for over 25 years.

The firm has built it’s reputation by supplying elegant but practical clothing to the profession and prides itself on high quality, personal service and unique designs.

Brook York supply a full range of business and casual clothing for ladies and gentlemen, but are best known for the supply of quality specialist clothing to the funeral trade. The firm carries leading names like Barker and Loake shoes, suits

by Magee and Digel and the Performance range of suits for industry professionals.

Brook York carry overcoats, raincoats, morning wear, hats, ladies and gents accessories, blouses, fully washable suits and a ladies corporate range and weft range.

Each edition of the catalogue is eagerly awaited by the firms many customers but more and more funeral directors are choosing their work wear

Cemetery road sign changed T

he BBC Northern Ireland website carried a story about a road sign pointing towards a cemetery in County Down was has been changed following complaints that it was in bad taste.

The sign also directed motorists to a new recycling facility outside Comber.

The issue was raised by a Stormont assembly member, who complained that combining the two facilities on a single sign was "highly inappropriate" and the council apologised "for any upset the error has caused".

The council subsequently erected two

separate signs and assembly member David McNarry said: "I think the council have acted responsibly and fair play to them - it was totally insensitive."

"A couple of wags had been saying, 'if they don't bury you, they'll recycle you', but people were sensitive about it.

New delivery from Duffy Coachbodies of Dundalk Duffy Coachbodies of Dundalk delivers a new hearse for Chandu Tailor and Son who serve the Sikh and Hindu community of Greater London. Featured on the BBC 2 documentary “Dead, Good Job�, now viewable on YouTube, Chandu Tailor and Son have two generations working to give their clients the highest standard of service FuneralTimes | 75

Trauma 24-7 answers the three big questions P

atrick Looney of Trauma 24-7 Restoration spent two busy days at the Funeral Times Trade Show at Citywest. “I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who visited our stand”, said Patrick, “It was great to get the chance to meet our customers in person.Three of the most common questions were: What we do? Are we nationwide, and Who pays the bill?”

“Our aim is to provide help to families in a time of need after a traumatic incident.

This could mean the biologically contaminated scene of a violent death, murder,

suicide or accidental. We save family members the added trauma of cleaning up the scene themselves. At Trauma 24-7 restoration we provide a 24 hour, nationwide service, 365 days a year and have staff based in Cork, Dublin, Carlow and Galway.

“As far as who pays the bill, it is at the discretion of the funeral director, but in most cases we bill the property owner or family directly.

“I would like to take the opportunity to wish everyone a peaceful Christmas and a happy new year.”

When disasters happen - we are there to help!

Trauma 24-7 provide a 24-hour nationwide professional and efficient response to emergencies in both commercial and domestic properties.

Specialists in Trauma & Crime Scene Restoration • Post trauma clean-up • Blood and bodily fluid clean-up • Unattended death clean-up • Accident clean-up • Crime scene clean up

• Syringe and sharps removal • MRSI disinfection / Sanitising • Odour removal • Human or animal faeces clean up • I. I. C. R. C. Certified Licenced Technicians

Contact Patrick Looney

Tel: 021 4397428 / Mob: 086 1678350 (24hr)

Email: patricktrauma247@gmail.com • Web: www.trauma24-7.ie 76 | FuneralTimes

Next generation extended at Wilcox family firm L

eila Wilcox has officially joined the team at Wilcox Limousines, adding to the third generation of the eponymous family working in the business.

Leila, 33, daughter of CEO Paul, will run the PR and marketing function of the company.

She has spent the past 13 years in business, specialising in innovation and entrepreneurship and launched two successful businesses from scratch.

“Leila will bring experience in global and prestige sales, consumer loyalty and new innovations, as well as a wealth of experience in PR and marketing,” said Paul. “We are proud to have her on board.”

The other member of the Wilcox family’s third generation at the firm is Louis, who has 22 years experience as funeral director and sales director.

“In such turbulent times it’s fantastic to see the next generation coming into the business,” added Paul. “It reflects the business’s stability and growth, allowing us to introduce new

initiatives and deliver even more excellence to our customers. We believe in delivering the highest customer service for the very best funeral vehicles in the world.”

There are new initiatives happening within the company, including a revamped website and online videos that show how the vehicles are built and offer a virtual tour of the flagship Wigan factory.

The company now sends out a regular online newsletter and its presence on social media sites YouTube, Facebook and Twitter is growing. A customer loyalty scheme is also in the pipeline.

“Many of Wilcox’s customers have been buying vehicles from us since my Granddad launched in 1945 and have known me since I born,” said Leila. “It’s really exciting to look at ways in which we can work together even more closely and help these loyal customers.”

Leila is keen to hear from anyone with suggestions or requests. Email Leilaw@ wilcoxlims.co.uk or call (01753) 480600.

FuneralTimes | 77

Network of Digital Autopsy Centres being built in the UK First centre opens in November T

he UK is to be the first country in the world to have a network of 18 stateof-the-art Digital Autopsy facilities, offering a significant humanitarian step forward in establishing the cause of unnatural death using a scanner rather than a scalpel.

The £3 million Digital Autopsy Facility, currently being built at Sheffield’s MedicoLegal Centre, will be the first of a nationwide network Malaysian Prime Minister the Honourable Dato' Seri Mohd Najib Tun that will eventually Abdul Razak at the launch of iGene Digital Autopsy Facilities, carrying involve an investment out a ceremonial signing, watched by iGene Chairman Tan Sri Dr of £50 million in Ismail Merican the UK, over the team in Sheffield as well as recruiting at next two years. The Sheffield centre will least 14 other highly-skilled support staff to be completed in November and will be work along-side them. operated by iGene in conjunction with Approximately 550,000 deaths are Sheffield City Council. recorded in England and Wales each year Digital Autopsy involves a threealone, of which more than 200,000 are dimensional scan of the body using a classified as medico legal. iGene believes CT scanner, before iGene’s revolutionary that Digital Autopsies will eventually visualisation software enables the replace traditional autopsies as first line pathologist to conduct a full, non-invasive intervention in more than 70% of cases. digital post mortem using a large, At the London launch of the project touchscreen tablet computer. The results with the Malaysian Prime Minister the are available almost immediately.

Honourable Dato' Seri Mohd Najib Tun The construction and equipping of the Abdul Razak, founder and CEO of iGene, new Sheffield centre is being funded by Matt Chandran said: “This is the first iGene London Limited, the UK subsidiary Digital Autopsy network anywhere in of iGene Sdn. Bhd. a Malaysian advanced the world, which is a testament to the medical informatics company and iGene innovative thought-leadership of the UK will also train and support the pathology 78 | FuneralTimes

Government and forward-thinking cities like Sheffield and others across the country, with whom we are working.”

Peter Vanezis, Consultant Forensic Pathologist to the Home Office and Chief Medical Officer for iGene in the UK, stressed that the introduction of this new technology would be progressive. He added: “Only Coroners can order a digital autopsy and their partnership with us is of paramount importance. As Chief Medical Officer, I will continue to work closely with local authority Coroners, with whom I have had long relationships over the years, to understand their needs and see how Digital Autopsy can be used to complement and eventually avoid a traditional, invasive post mortem.

“I am also setting up a steering committee of 10-14 experts to assist me in this work, including pathologists, radiologists, radiographers and physicists; people from both medical and scientific disciplines.

This steering committee will ensure quality assurance and strengthen the links between the new technology and existing ones.”

Ash Govind, a former funeral director and death care strategist in the UK, is now the Global Vice President of Commercial Development for iGene. He stresses that it will be important for funeral directors to be aware of this new facility as fees for digital autopsies may one day be collected as part of the disbursements of a funeral. “A Digital Autopsy is less invasive and can establish the cause of unnatural death in a less distressing way for families and in a way that offers greater dignity to the deceased.

This is therefore an important service for funeral directors to be aware of that can support bereaved families at a time of loss.

“As digital autopsies are quicker to carry out, when they are able to replace some traditional post mortems this could also lead to the earlier release of bodies for cremation or burial, thereby speeding up the funeral process and necessitating changes to the way they are arranged.”

You can find out more about Digital Autopsies by visiting www. mydigitalautopsy.com

Wreath Manufacture & Wholesale At Tom Sharkey & Sons Ltd. Barrack Street, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon.

All wreaths are created by fully qualified florists, reflecting contemporary design in floral arrangements All at very competitive prices Special requests catered for at shortest notice

n Free next day delivery on orders over €100

We have an extensive stock ready for delivery or collection including: • Circles of Life • Posies • Sprays • Hearts • Crosses • Cushions • Pillows • Gates of Heaven • Footballs and Jerseys • Posies with Candles • Lettering Wreaths Discounts apply on scale of your orders

n Call or email now to receive our new brochure

Telephone: +00353 (0)94 986 0658 or email: sales@allseasonsflorists.ie FuneralTimes | 79

When you need something special 2

013 saw the rebirth of a truly unique hearse that was first in service in 1939. This Austin 20 was reintroduced to the funeral trade by funeral director, Damien Smith.

The hearse was painstakingly restored to mirror its glory days by locally sourced craftsmen including renowned carpenters Brendan and Johny Smith. Fortunately the original interior workings were still intact and functioning, a testament to the quality of past craftsmen and early engineering.

The deck was replaced to an impeccable standard using French oak. The remaining features were replaced with similar furnishings to pay homage to the original hearse. The hearse is beautifully adorned with its original solid brass fittings which decorate the exterior giving it a truly luxurious appearance.

At its recent showing at the Funeral Times Trade Show in Dublin the hearse turned heads and raised eyebrows, causing quite a stir with

80 | FuneralTimes

an enormous interest being shown by young and old alike. Families who have availed of this great hearse all agreed it is a fitting tribute to a life well lived and leaves them with a lasting memory of their loved ones final journey to their resting place.

Contact Vintage Hearse Hire on 028 3753 1354 (NI) / 048 3753 1354 (ROI) Mobile: (+44) (0)7712 872391 www.vintagehearsehire.net

Vintage Hearse Hire Fully restored 1939 Austin 20 vintage hearse

Can be used for all occasions: • Funerals • Funeral Premises Openings • Trade Exhibitions The vehicle is regularly serviced and is valeted to the highest standards for each occasion, so it will arrive on the day in pristine condition for the occasion.

On the day your company name can be displayed in the side glass of the vehicle.

A professional, uniformed chauffeur/ bearer will also be provided.

T: 028 3753 1354 (NI) / 048 3753 1354 (ROI) Mobile: (+44) (0)7712 872391 Web: www.vintagehearsehire.net

FuneralTimes | 81

Galoshes

Suits

Raincoat

Leather Gloves

Collapsible sign

Printed Umbrellas

Windproof

Canes

Printed Armbands

Headwear

Reserved Seating

Knitwear

Contact: 087 675 7532

Ladies Range NOW AVAILABLE Dressing the Funeral Directors of Ireland Associate member of the IAFD

New Irish-owned business Expert quality of service offered Off-the-rail suits and/or bespoke tailoring Appropriate fabrics, colours and styles All records kept to enable ease of reordering and continuity of fabric and suit choice Comprehensive list of accessories Printing service

Please visit our website for full service, products and accessories available www.thedirectorscut.ie

82 | FuneralTimes

y Mc Dermott r r e G Wreath Manufacturer

Circular Road, Roscommon Tel: 090 6629737 Tel: 090 6625763 Mob: 086 2544126 Mob: 086 8205215

Manufacturers to the Funeral Trade Soft Goods

Lighting & Candles

Mountings

Urns

Thanatopraxy

News

Funeral Supplies Donegal Ltd. Leghowney Donegal Town Co. Donegal Ireland Tel: +353 (0)74 9723715 Fax: +353 (0)74 9723742 Mobile: +353 (0)87 2376169 www.funeralsupplies.ie email: funeralsupplies@eircom.net

Funeral Supplies

We manufacture and supply: Coffin and Casket Linings, Side Sheets, Shrouds, Coffin Pads, Casket Pads, Lid Liners, Mountings.

Made to order Casket Half Sets and Coffin Half Lid Sets

Donegal Ltd

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Specialist software for funeral industry I

t is very important for Funeral Directors to think about their internal systems for administration and handling accounts. With an efficient and streamlined system in place, a professional image will be presented to the public and more time can be spent where it is most important – helping families when they need it most.

One of the core ideas behind the Eulogica software is that every funeral is unique and every funeral director is unique. We have found that all funeral directors do things in their own way, be it the letters that are sent out or the services included in the funeral. The software is designed to be as flexible as possible so that any eventuality can be catered for. This is especially

84 | FuneralTimes

important for independent funeral directors because the way they do business is vital to their continuing success. If the software is not capable of working for them then they will not be getting the benefits of such a system.

The system covers all aspects of the funeral, from the first call to handling the invoices and accounts. When a new funeral is being organised, the information is entered into the database – details of the deceased person, the client, the next of kin, etc. The different parts of the funeral are then entered as details are arranged – coffin choices, vehicles, minister details, etc. With the data in the system a wide variety of letters, forms and reports can be printed out without having to enter any details a second time.

Eulogica was originally developed in the 1990s, for funeral directors in Norway. A concept of continuous maintenance and support led to widespread acceptance of the system across the country and the majority of all funerals in Norway are administered through the Eulogica system. Eulogica was established in the UK in 2003, with the software being launched in 2005. In 2008 the business expanded into Sweden. 2012 saw the expansion into Ireland and the Netherlands.

Life after death exists - at least digitally Now a digital life can continue after death with the invention and launch of The Digital Memorial Plaque. The plaque is attached to a headstone or memorial stone and contains unique codes telling the viewer, via a smart phone or tablet, the life story of the deceased.

I

an Milne of Ian Milne Funeral Directors, Co. Armagh and Digital Memorial Ltd are collaborating on the launch throughout Ireland of The Digital Memorial Plaque.

Presented in a gold embossed condolence box the plaque makes an ideal sympathy gift.

The plaque can be personalized containing the loved ones name, a unique web address, and a QR code, all linking the plaque and it’s special location to a personal website at a unique online location.

Family and friends can now see pictures, video and stories of their loved ones direct at the graveside or special place and future generations will understand what made them so special.

Richard Longworth owner of Digital Memorial Ltd commented ‘the product came about from an eureka moment when standing by my father’s headstone. I thought about the fact that very few people will get to know his life story and what made him special. Then with my IT background I thought of ways to solve that problem, hence The Digital Memorial Plaque was created.’

The plaques are designed to be used in all weather being made of bonded acrylic and estimated to last at least 200 years. They are simply bonded or fastened to the surface of a headstone, memorial stone or urn, indeed to anywhere that’s a special place such as a bench.

Family, friend’s colleagues or just the curious, can access and share a life story, creating digital media immortality, once only the preserve of the rich, famous or infamous.

Digital-memorial.com was founded in 2012 to help those grieving the loss of a loved one through bereavement. The company offers a range of products and services connecting a special place such as headstone or memorial stone to a loved one’s online life story.

The Digital Memorial Plaque AttachCreate-Share-Remember If you'd like more information about this topic, or to schedule an interview with Richard Longworth, please e-mail richard@digital-memorial.com FuneralTimes | 85

Pharopack offers peace of mind S

tephen Collier has been working as a funeral director for almost thirty years.

In that time the funeral business in Ireland has seen many changes. Probably the greatest change for both the bereaved and the funeral director is that of the practice of embalming.

“Embalming has taken much of the stress and worry from our daily lives. How helpful it is to finish one working day and begin the next knowing that the person who has died and is now in our care has been professionally treated by the embalmer and reposes in a dignified way for the duration of the funeral obsequies.

Of course on occasion, we find ourselves dealing with a body which cannot be aided by the skills of our embalmers, or that the family do not wish for this procedure to be applied.

It is then we must protect our reputation as funeral directors, the health and safety of our staff and of course the families we serve by taking the appropriate course of action.

Pharopack is the new, cost effective way

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of providing for the hygienic storage of the deceased. It is presented as a strong, flexible, folded sheet which can be easily cut to the size required and then be easily sealed on it’s three remaining sides by a GHD or a more specialised sealer in a matter of minutes before being placed in the chosen coffin. It is suitable for use in the burial and cremation process.

Pharopack can also be used for the safe shipment of human remains, requiring no pressure valve, fitting into any coffin and can be easily opened and disposed of at it’s destination. It is approved by IATA. Since we at Colliers Funeral Directors discovered and subsequently stocked this product we have found complete “peace of mind” when faced with a difficult case.

You can order Pharopack now by calling + 353 1 281 4114 . It is available in 2.4 metre (95”) single sheets or in larger, more cost effective rolls.

Don’t wait for the day that you need it!”

CONTACT: PAUL MOLLOY MOB: 087 2590843

2002 Ford Mondeo 2.0 hearse 3dr automatic 2.0 Petrol, Panther Black, 29,000 miles / 46,671 kilometers, 5 doors, remote central locking, power steering, immobiliser, height adjustable drives seat, front electric windows, electrically adjustable seats, electric windows, electric mirrors, drivers airbag, cloth seat trim, CD, automatic, air conditioning, adjustable steering column/wheel. ÂŁPrice on Application

Fort Motors Ltd, Cromwellsfort Road, Dublin 12 Tel: 01 4561811 . Fax: 01 4558402 . sales@fortmotors.ie

New Style Ford Mondeo Hearse

Also: 2010 Ford Hearses For Sale Visit us on our website @ www.byrnecoachbuilders.ie for all new vehicles and pre-owned Hearses Tel. 042 93 34631 FuneralTimes | 87

Classifieds...

Classifieds... email your advert to: sales@funeraltimes.com 2005 Merecedes Benz e-Class hearse & Limousine

by Coleman Milne • Hearse E240, 5 door, 53,000 miles • Limousine E240, 6 door, 33,000 miles.

• Available March 2014

£45,000 for both

Fleming & cuthbert funeral directors 141 mill road, ballyclare, Northern Ireland

Tel. 02893 344242 email: info@flemingandcuthbert.co.uk

Absolute The NEW, cost sealing way of effective & h ygienic for the providing storage hygienic storage Deceased ! of the deceased.

for sale 2004 Mercedes 320 cdi estate

Never a zzinc inc ccoffin! offin !

Never

in

om inc ly

• 70,000 miles • Registered as a hearse • Silver • Excellent condition inside and out.

For further information contact: Stephen Collier + 353 (0)1 281 4114

88 | FuneralTimes

World novelty!

pharopack-­‐bio

OFFERS Tel. 086 8268876

Classifieds...

Classifieds... email your advert to: sales@funeraltimes.com for sale 1996 Ford Scorpio hearse

• Good condition • 80k on clock • €1150 ono

Contact: Hugh Byrne on 086 8938800

DAVID McKEON HEARSE HIRE Sunnagh Beg, Cloone, Co. Leitrim

for sale 2007 Mercedes hearse

• 31,000 miles • Byrne built • Double deck • In excellent condition • Can be viewed in Dublin

Contact: 087 2582032

PATRICK RYAN & DAUGHTER FUNERAL DIRECTORS SPECIALISING IN REPATRIATION TO ALL PARTS OF IRELAND

24 HR SERVICE Long or short term hire Nationwide CONTACT ROI Mobile: 087-8045115 / 087-2981956 / 071-9636000

TEL: 0208 567 1664 FAX: 0208 566 4795 6 South Ealing Road, London W5 4QA Email: patrick.ryan@virgin.net Website: PATRICK-RYAN.CO.UK COVERING LONDON AND THE HOME COUNTIES FuneralTimes | 89

Classifieds...

Classifieds... email your advert to: sales@funeraltimes.com for sale 2004 Vauxhall vectra

• Excellent condition • 2.2 Petrol • 28,000 miles • Alloy wheels • MOT until July 2014 • Taxed until March 2014 Price: £11,500. Enquiries to oliver at: Tel. 3753 8892 / 07545 020822

for sale 2006 Mercedes hearse 2.7 cdi

• Excellent condition inside and out.

for sale 1981 ROLLS ROYCE SILVER SPIRIT

• 6 door • White • Tax Sept 2014 • PSV May 2014 • Only one of its kind!

Price on application Tel. ronnie (NI) 028 4063 8006

for sale - 2010 D reg FORD Galaxy REMOVAL CAR/hearse

• 2010 Reg • 2 ltr Diesel Auto • New deck fitted with third seat folding away leaving room for 2 stretchers

Contact: Wards Funeral Home, Co. Monaghan Tel. 042 9741075 Or 086 2726521 90 | FuneralTimes

Classifieds...

Classifieds... email your advert to: sales@funeraltimes.com Matthew L. Jones Funeral Services

• South Wales based • 24 Hour removal & repatriation service • Long & short distance throughout UK & Ireland • Inclusive of airports & ferry ports • B.I.E qualified embalming service • Also Hearse & Limousine hire available Tel: 07815 866652/01267 236787 (24hrs) email: info@mljfs.co.uk www.matthewljonesfuneralservices.co.uk

church pews for sale Solid, seasoned mahogany, excellent condition, very comfortable, varying lengths, typically 2.6m, any quantity.

ONLY A FEW REMAINING

Contact Ernest McKeown: 028 2564 2673

FOR SALE - PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEM PACKAGE DEAL - PA12

PA 12 UNIT ON ITS OWN €750

1 X PA12..............................................................€750 1 X PA STAND.......................................................€55 1 X RAIN COVER .................................................€84 1 X MIKE STAND & HOLDER...............................€40 1 X SPEAKER STAND, MIKE STAND + HOLDALL.€55 1 X ALL WEATHER MIC .....................................€100 1 X XLR CABLE ...............................................€28.50 1 X XLR TO JACK CABLE ..............................€24.50 POSTAGE .............................................................€55 TOTAL (15% OFF DEAL)............... €1193 (€1014.10) PACKAGE DEAL PA 15....................................€1293 15% OFF DEAL ...........................................€1099.05 30% BOOKING DEPOSIT REQUIRED

FEATURES: • RUNS FOR UP TO 8 HOURS ON ITS OWN POWER • USB/SD MEDIA PLAYER • CAN TAKE IPOD/CD PLAYER OR MUSICAL INSTRUMENT • CAN RUN ON 12 VOLT CAR BATTERY • BASS AND TREBLE ADJUSTMENTS • SEPARATE VOLUMNE ON ALL CHANNELS • VERY PORTABLE AND LIGHTWEIGHT

(INCLUDES 2 WIRELESS MICS)

CONTACT: GER FITZSIMONS AT 086 821 2867

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Santas Wish List

The Reindeer were no match for the Big Cats The Wilcox Jaguar - anything else is a compromise

www.limousines.co.uk enquiries@wilcoxlims.co.uk Tel.Tel: +4401753 (0)1753 enquiries@wilcoxlims.co.uk 480480 600600