MORE FUNERAL HOMES IN TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO WANT TO HANDLE COVID DEATHS

 By a Staff Reporter:  Directors of funeral homes in Trinidad and Tobago have been calling on the Ministry of Health to review the criteria which grants them authorization to handle covid-19 deaths to assist with the increase.
Last Wednesday Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh denied reports of any overflow of mortuaries and funeral homes and said that a contingency plan is being discussed with President of the Association of Funeral Professionals of Trinidad and Tobago Keith Belgrove.
IENews reached out to Mr Belgrove on Monday regarding the issue. He explained to us that a facility is being set up to house covid-19 bodies until funeral arrangements are finalized and families are ready for the body. He said this is part of a partnership between the Association and the Ministry of Health.
One funeral director said he attempted apply for authorization, but was directed by the Chief Medical Officer’s office to go to the association.