Credit has been paid to both Community Employment Schemes and local residents for their continued maintenance of local cemeteries. Former Fermoy councillor John Murphy, paid tribute to the fantastic work being done to keep Castlehyde Cemetery and Gortroe in Bartlemy, in such impressive condition.

Mr Murphy, who is involved with Fermoy Tidy Towns, said it is a credit to all concerned that the old cemeteries are kept so well.

He said it’s a shame when you see old cemeteries in the area neglected.

“Nowadays Cork County Council are finding it hard to keep these old cemeteries clean, due to staff embargos and recruitment issues.”

He said it is important therefore, that the work being done by local employment schemes and local people, as in the case of Gortroe, should be properly recognised.