With a growing Muslim population in Chatham-Kent, representatives of the local Muslim community have reached out to council to discuss cemetery services aligned with the requirements of their faith.
An information report was received at Monday night’s council meeting, saying the Muslim community would like a segregated and dedicated area of a Chatham-Kent cemetery for members of their faith.
Chatham-Kent’s Director, Parks, Fleet & Facilities Rob Pollock said they intend to come back to council in the future as they work to fill the Muslim community’s needs. He said there would be a need to change the cemetery bylaw and possibly change fees.
Chatham councilor Brock McGregor said it’s important for the municipality to fill needs and gaps in the community, and look at ways to support growing culture and communities in Chatham-Kent.
Mayor Darrin Canniff echoed those sentiments, noting as Chatham-Kent grows and becomes more multicultural, it’s important the community adapt.
