The Ministry of Health has issued a public warning following the discovery of unauthorised construction at the St. John's Public Cemetery and other public cemeteries across Antigua and Barbuda.
The Ministry reminded residents that no one is permitted to construct, alter or install tombs, headstones, fences, retaining walls, concrete structures or any other permanent feature within a public cemetery without first obtaining written approval from the Chief Health Inspector.
Any unauthorised work will be stopped immediately and removed, regardless of how far construction has progressed. Individuals who carry out such work — or interfere with graves, burial plots, tombs or other cemetery structures — could face prosecution under the Public Health Act.
The approval process exists to protect the rights of families, preserve the dignity and sanctity of cemetery grounds, maintain accurate burial records, ensure the orderly management of public cemeteries and safeguard public health and safety.
The Ministry also cautioned the public against acting on instructions or approvals from unauthorised individuals. Anyone planning cemetery-related work must obtain the necessary permission directly from the Cemetery Office or the Central Board of Health before construction begins.
All enquiries relating to burials, family plots, tombs, headstones, fencing, retaining walls or other cemetery works should be directed to the appropriate authorities.
The Ministry of Health confirmed it is strengthening monitoring and enforcement measures at public cemeteries and will take action against anyone found in breach of the regulations. Residents are urged to cooperate with established procedures to help preserve the integrity, safety and dignity of Antigua and Barbuda's public cemeteries.
