The City of Dryden says it will be seeking possible ways for the Cemetery to be more culturally inclusive including the tradition of a Spirit House.
Chief Administrative Officer Roger Nesbitt confirms staff have reversed an initial decision to remove a structure on a cemetery plot following a requested meeting to share information on the important cultural practice.
Nesbitt says staff have committed to bringing forward changes to the Cemetery By-law that will be geared towards making the Dryden Cemetery’s products and services more culturally inclusive.
He notes proposed changes will be brought forward to Council for consideration at a later date.
Here is the following statement from CAO Roger Nesbitt:
“The City, while enforcing its municipal Cemetery By-law, received a request for reconsideration of our initial decision requesting removal of a structure on a cemetery plot. We were also asked to seek possible ways for the Dryden Cemetery to be more culturally inclusive including the tradition of a Spirit House. After receiving the request and meeting to share information on this important cultural practice, City staff have since reversed its initial decision and the Spirit House will remain on the plot while by-law changes are further researched and considered. City staff have committed to bringing forward changes to the Cemetery By-law that will be geared towards making the Dryden Cemetery’s products and services more culturally inclusive and appropriate to meet the needs of all of our residents and cemetery customers while also working within the limits of the current cemetery design and provincial regulations. It is important that the City maintain its ability to provide a safe, barrier free environment at the Dryden Cemetery for City workers, contractors and the public. These changes will be brought forward to Dryden’s City Council for consideration at a later date.”
