WITH the number of Covid-19 cases contracted at funerals on the increase, all communities have been urged to adhere to the national regulations set in place for burials and cremations during the nationwide Covid-19 lockdown.
Kouga Community Services Portfolio Councillor, Daniel Benson, said lockdown regulations limited the number of people at a funeral to 50.
“We would advise, wherever possible, that attendance be restricted to immediate close family only. Social distancing guidelines should also be adhered to at all times,” he said.
“We know that this is difficult, but staying home and avoiding gatherings is the best way to stop yourself or your family from getting or spreading the coronavirus.”
He further reminded residents that a special permit had to be obtained should they wish to travel between provinces or metropolitan and district areas to attend burials or cremations.
Only the following persons may apply for such a permit: the spouse or partner of the deceased; children of the deceased, whether biological, adopted or stepchildren; children-in-law of the deceased; parents of the deceased, whether biological, adopted or stepparents; siblings, whether biological, adopted or stepbrothers or sisters of the deceased; grandparents of the deceased; and persons closely affiliated to the deceased.
“The permit can be obtained from the station commander of a police station or a person designated by him or her,” Benson said.
According to the regulations, the applicant must present the death certificate of the deceased or a certified copy of the certificate.
A permit holder may stay at a hotel, lodge or guesthouse for the duration of the funeral or cremation.
The permit must be presented to the owner or manager of the hotel, lodge or guesthouse.
The COVID-19 regulations and amendment can be downloaded at http://www.cogta.gov.za/?p=7871.
