New $250,000 community-funded mortuary opens at Raralevu cemetery

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Minister for Health and Medical Services, Dr. Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu at the opening yesterday – SUPPLIED

A new $250,000 community funded mortuary opened at the Raralevu cemetery in Nausori yesterday.

The mortuary has 12 berths.

Minister for Health and Medical Services, Dr. Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu said the facility was funded by through contributions from former residents, local businesses, and generous individuals.

“This project exemplifies community self-help and highlights the dedication of the Raralevu Cemetery Committee and local residents,” he said.

“We acknowledge that existing mortuary facilities across the country have faced many challenges, including the lack of capacity to meet the community’s need, and the lack of modern amenities necessary to serve our people’s expectations.”

“This project is a good example of a self-help project that the government is fully supportive of, where the community has identified a pressing need in their own community and has taken steps forward to establish the service without waiting for government assistance.”