Wexford County Council urged to address disparity in burial plot prices

A Wexford county councillor is calling for greater equality in burial plot prices across the county, highlighting significant differences in the cost of purchasing a grave depending on its location.

Councillor Barbara-Ann Murphy, Wexford County Council, Enniscorthy Municipal District says families in some areas are paying substantially more for burial plots than those in other parts of the county.

A single plot costs €1,000 in cemeteries including Bunclody, Castlebridge, Enniscorthy and Ferns, compared with €500 at St Stephen’s Cemetery in Rosslare and €260 at Crosstown Cemetery in Wexford town.

Double plots also vary in price, costing €2,000 in the higher-priced cemeteries, €1,000 at St Stephen’s and €400 at Crosstown.

Speaking on Morning Mix, Barbara said she raised concerns after a report on burial ground charges came before councillors last May.

She said she wants the council to examine the differences and work towards a common pricing structure across the county.

“I haven't asked for any prices to be increased. I have asked for equality,” she said.

Barbara explained that grave-opening fees are also payable, but the arrangements differ between cemeteries. At Crosstown, the council charges €400 for opening a grave, while in other cemeteries the cost is paid to the person carrying out the work and can vary.

She said she would prefer charges to be reduced in the more expensive cemeteries, but acknowledged that councillors must consider the financial implications.

The council is examining the issue and is expected to bring forward proposals for consideration by councillors.

Cllr. Murphy said any move towards equalising charges should be introduced gradually rather than overnight, pointing to the process used to bring commercial rates into line across the county following local government changes.

Figures reported in October show burial grounds generated €424,000 in income between 2023 and 2025, while more than €1 million was spent on their maintenance during the same period.

Barbara acknowledged the costs involved in maintaining cemeteries, including staffing and upkeep, but said families should be treated fairly regardless of where they live.

She said councillors will need to consider the proposals as part of the budget process for next year.