Derry City and Strabane District Council has apologised over the removal of relics and monuments from a city cemetery.
Council representatives and the PSNI visited Ballyoan Cemetery today following complaints from the public that relics and momentums had been removed.
A Council spokesperson explained the relics had been removed by Council grounds maintenance staff who were carrying out routine grass cutting and maintenance work at the cemetery yesterday.
The spokesperson explained that due to inclement weather conditions at the time, they were unable to complete the works or reinstate the relics to the graves.
Apologising for any upset caused, the spokesperson said Council was sorry if their actions caused any distress to the public.
The spokesperson assured the public that staff would be at the cemetery today to complete the work and reinstate the relics to the graves.
The spokesperson added: “We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience and upset caused and endeavour to do what we can today to redress the issue.
“We are very mindful of the fact that the cemetery is a place of rest and we will continue to work to ensure the area is kept clean, tidy and safe for the public to visit,” the spokesperson added.
The clarification has been welcomed by Waterside Sinn Fein councillor Christopher Jackson.
He said: “I hope this news will put relatives of those buried in the cemetery minds at ease.”
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