Common FAQs

Table Of Contents

General FAQs
Traditional Funeral FAQs
Funeral Pre-Planning FAQs
Cremation Services FAQs
Coffins and Caskets FAQs

General FAQs

What should I do when someone dies at home?

If the death was expected and your loved one was under medical care, contact their GP first. If the death was unexpected, call 112 immediately. Once medical professionals have attended, contact us and we will guide you through the next steps with compassion and care.

What documents do I need when someone dies?

You’ll need the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (from the doctor), proof of identity for the deceased, and details for death registration. We can help you gather these documents and guide you through the registration process at the Civil Registration Office.

How quickly do I need to arrange the funeral?

In Ireland, funerals typically take place 2-4 days after death, allowing time for family to travel and arrangements to be made. However, there’s no legal requirement for immediate burial, and we can accommodate your family’s needs and religious customs.

What is the role of a funeral director?

We handle all practical arrangements including collection and care of the deceased, liaising with clergy or celebrants, coordinating with cemeteries or crematoriums, arranging flowers, and providing emotional support throughout the process. We’re here to shoulder the burden during your difficult time.

How much does a funeral cost in Ireland?

Funeral costs vary depending on your choices, but typically range from €3,000 to €6,000. This includes our professional services, coffin, hearse, and basic arrangements. We provide transparent pricing and can discuss payment options to ease financial concerns during this difficult time.

Can I get help with funeral costs?

Yes, you may be entitled to the Funeral Grant from the Department of Social Protection if you meet certain criteria. We can help you apply for this support and discuss other payment arrangements if needed.

What happens if someone dies abroad?

We can assist with repatriation services, working with international funeral directors and handling the complex paperwork involved. This process typically takes 7-14 days depending on the country and circumstances.

Do I need to register the death immediately?

Death registration should be completed within 3 months in Ireland, but it’s usually done within a few days.

What if the family cannot agree on funeral arrangements?

We often help families navigate these sensitive discussions with patience and understanding. Irish law gives priority to the spouse, then adult children, then parents in decision-making. We facilitate family meetings when needed to reach consensus.

Can we have a funeral service in a language other than English?

Absolutely. Ireland’s multicultural communities are welcome to hold services in their native language.

Useful Information:

Keep important documents (wills, insurance policies, medical records) in an accessible location
Consider registering with the General Register Office online service for easier death registration
The Irish Hospice Foundation (www.hospicefoundation.ie) provides excellent bereavement support resources
Remember that grief affects everyone differently – there’s no “right” way to mourn
Local parish priests, ministers, and community leaders can provide additional spiritual and emotional support during this time

Traditional Funeral FAQs

What does a traditional Irish wake involve?

A traditional Irish wake involves the body lying in repose, usually at home or in our funeral home, where family and friends gather to pay their respects, share memories, and provide comfort to the bereaved. It’s a time for storytelling, prayer, and community support that can last 1-2 days.

Can we still hold a wake at home?

Yes, many Irish families still choose home wakes. We can provide all necessary equipment and support to facilitate this, including preparation of the deceased, provision of a suitable bed or coffin, and coordination with clergy for prayers and rosary services.

What is the difference between a wake and a funeral service?

The wake is the period of watching over the deceased before burial, involving visiting, prayers, and sharing memories. The funeral service is the formal religious or civil ceremony, usually held in a church, followed by burial or cremation.

How long should a traditional funeral service last?

A traditional Irish funeral Mass typically lasts 45-60 minutes, followed by the cortège to the cemetery and graveside prayers. The entire process usually takes 2-3 hours, allowing time for the community to gather and pay their respects.

Can we have music at the funeral service?

Irish funerals often include traditional hymns like “Be Thou My Vision” or “How Great Thou Art.” Many families also include Irish traditional music or songs that held special meaning for the deceased. We work with local musicians and singers to create meaningful ceremonies.

What is the significance of the rosary at Irish funerals?

The rosary is traditionally recited during the wake as a form of prayer for the deceased’s soul. It brings the community together in prayer and provides comfort to the grieving family.

How do we organize the funeral cortège?

The funeral cortège is a procession from the church to the cemetery, led by the hearse. We coordinate the order of cars, provide appropriate signage, and ensure the procession moves at a respectful pace, often passing the deceased’s home as a final farewell.

What happens at the graveside service?

The graveside service includes final prayers, often the “Prayer of Commendation,” and the committal of the body to the earth. Family members may wish to place soil on the coffin, and it’s traditional for mourners to remain until the grave is filled as a final act of respect.

Can we include Irish language prayers or readings?

Absolutely. Many Irish families incorporate prayers in Irish Gaelic, such as “Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam” (May their soul be at the right hand of God). We work with bilingual clergy and can provide printed materials for mourners to follow along.

What is the role of the chief mourner?

Traditionally, the chief mourner is the spouse or eldest child, who leads the family in receiving condolences and making key decisions about the funeral arrangements. We provide guidance and support to help them fulfill this role with dignity.

How do we arrange for the Month’s Mind Mass?

The Month’s Mind Mass, held approximately one month after death, is an important Irish tradition. We can help you arrange this with your local parish and coordinate with family members who may wish to travel for this remembrance service.

Useful Information:

Traditional Irish funeral customs vary by region – we understand local practices throughout Ireland
The Irish Catholic Church provides guidelines for funeral liturgies that we follow closely
Consider appointing someone to keep a record of Mass cards and donations received
Traditional Irish blessings and prayers can be printed on memorial cards for mourners to keep
Local newspapers often publish death notices – we can help you compose and submit these announcements
Remember that many Irish funeral traditions are designed to support the community aspect of grieving

Funeral Pre-Planning FAQs

Why should I consider pre-planning my funeral?

Pre-planning ensures your wishes are known and respected, reduces stress on your family during their time of grief, and allows you to make financial arrangements at today’s prices. It’s a final gift of love and consideration to your family.

At what age should I start pre-planning?

There’s no specific age, but many people begin considering pre-planning in their 60s or after experiencing the loss of a loved one. However, it’s beneficial at any adult age, especially if you have specific wishes about your funeral arrangements.

Can I change my pre-planned arrangements?

Yes, absolutely. Pre-planned arrangements can be modified at any time. We recommend reviewing your plans every few years or after major life changes such as marriage, divorce, or relocation to ensure they still reflect your wishes.

How do I pay for a pre-planned funeral?

We offer several payment options including lump sum payment or monthly installments.

What information do I need to provide for pre-planning?

We’ll need your personal details, next of kin information, preferred type of service (burial or cremation), choice of cemetery or crematorium, special requests for music or readings, and details about any pre-purchased burial plots or columbarium spaces.

Can I pre-plan if I don’t live in Ireland currently?

Yes, many Irish emigrants pre-plan to be returned home for burial. We work with international funeral directors to coordinate repatriation services and ensure your wishes are carried out, regardless of where you currently reside.

What happens to my pre-paid funeral plan if your business closes?

Our pre-paid funeral plans are protected by insurance and regulatory frameworks. If our business were to close, your plan would be transferred to another licensed funeral director, ensuring your arrangements and payments are secure.

How do I ensure my family knows about my pre-planned arrangements?

We provide you with documentation to share with your family, and we maintain detailed records that your next of kin can access. We recommend discussing your plans with family members and keeping copies of agreements in easily accessible locations.

Can I pre-plan specific memorial services or celebrations of life?

Yes, pre-planning can include detailed instructions for memorial services, celebration of life events, or specific requests for how you’d like to be remembered. We can coordinate unique venues, catering, and special arrangements according to your wishes.

Can I include charitable donations in my pre-planned funeral?

Yes, many people include instructions for charitable donations in lieu of flowers or as part of their legacy. We can coordinate with your chosen charities and provide donation collection services during the funeral arrangements.

Useful Information:

Keep copies of your pre-planning documents with your will and other important papers
The Irish Association of Funeral Directors sets standards for pre-planning services
Consider discussing your plans with your solicitor when updating your will
Pre-planning is particularly valuable if you have specific cultural or religious requirements
Some life insurance policies can be assigned to cover funeral costs – we can help coordinate this
Regular reviews ensure your plans remain current with your wishes and circumstances

Cremation Services FAQs

Is cremation accepted in the Irish Catholic Church?

Yes, the Catholic Church has permitted cremation since 1963, provided it’s not chosen for reasons contrary to Christian teaching. Most Irish priests will conduct funeral Masses followed by cremation, and we work closely with clergy to ensure respectful services.

How long does the cremation process take?

The actual cremation process typically takes 2-3 hours, depending on various factors. However, the entire process from receiving the body to returning the ashes usually takes 3-5 working days, allowing time for all necessary paperwork and procedures.

Can we have a funeral service before cremation?

Absolutely. Most families choose to have a traditional funeral service, including Mass if desired, before cremation. The service can be held in a church, our chapel, or at the crematorium, followed by the committal service at the crematorium.

What happens to the ashes after cremation?

Ashes can be returned to the family in a temporary container or urn of your choice. You may choose to bury them in a cemetery, place them in a columbarium, scatter them in a meaningful location (with permission), or keep them at home in a memorial urn.

Are there restrictions on where we can scatter ashes in Ireland?

In Ireland, there are no specific laws governing ash scattering, but permission should be sought from landowners. Popular locations include family farms, beaches, mountains, or special places meaningful to the deceased. We can provide guidance on appropriate locations and procedures.

How do we know we’re receiving the correct ashes?

Crematoriums follow strict identification procedures throughout the process. The deceased is identified with a unique metal disc that remains with them through cremation, and this same disc is returned with the ashes to ensure proper identification.

What can and cannot be cremated with the body?

atural materials like wooden rosary beads, letters, or flowers can usually be included. However, items containing metal, plastic, or synthetic materials must be removed as they can damage the cremation equipment or release harmful substances.

Is a coffin required for cremation?

Yes, Irish law requires that bodies be cremated in a coffin or suitable container. We offer a range of coffins specifically designed for cremation, including eco-friendly options made from cardboard, bamboo, or other biodegradable materials.

How much does cremation cost compared to burial?

Cremation is generally less expensive than traditional burial as it doesn’t require a burial plot, headstone, or ongoing grave maintenance. However, costs vary depending on your choice of service, urn, and memorial options.

Can we divide the ashes among family members?

Yes, ashes can be divided among family members if desired. We can provide multiple smaller urns or containers, allowing different family members to keep portions of their loved one’s ashes or scatter them in various meaningful locations.

What memorial options are available for cremated remains?

Memorial options include traditional headstones in cemetery cremation sections, plaques in columbarium walls, memorial benches, tree planting, or creating memorial jewelry incorporating small amounts of ash. We can discuss various meaningful tribute options.

Useful Information:

Ireland has several modern crematoriums including facilities in Dublin, Cork, and other major cities
Environmental impact of cremation is generally lower than traditional burial
Some insurance policies may have specific clauses regarding cremation – check your policy details
Memorial services can be held at any time after cremation, allowing flexibility for family travel
Cremation certificates are required for scattering or burial of ashes
Consider creating a memorial book or website where friends and family can share memories and photos

Coffins and Caskets FAQs

What’s the difference between a coffin and a casket?

A coffin is typically six-sided with a wider top that tapers toward the feet, while a casket is rectangular with four sides. In Ireland, the term “coffin” is more commonly used, though both styles are available to suit family preferences.

What materials are coffins made from?

We offer coffins in various materials including traditional hardwoods (oak, mahogany, pine), eco-friendly options (cardboard, wicker), and metal caskets. Each material offers different aesthetic and environmental benefits to suit your family’s values and budget.

Can we personalize the coffin?

Yes, personalization options include engraved name plates, religious symbols, favorite colors, photographs, or meaningful decorations. We can arrange for custom artwork, sports team colors, or hobby-related themes to create a unique tribute to your loved one’s life.

What size coffins are available?

We provide coffins in various sizes to accommodate all body types with dignity and respect. Our experienced staff will ensure proper fitting, and we can arrange custom sizing if needed to ensure your loved one rests comfortably.

Can we use our own coffin or one purchased elsewhere?

Yes, you can provide your own coffin, though it must meet safety and legal requirements. We’ll inspect it to ensure it’s suitable for handling and burial or cremation requirements, and we can make any necessary adjustments.

What’s included with the coffin?

Standard inclusions typically cover interior lining, pillow, nameplate, and basic handles. Premium options may include upgraded linings, carved details, or special hardware. We’ll clearly explain what’s included with each option.

Are there coffins suitable for cremation?

Yes, cremation coffins are designed to burn cleanly without metal components that could damage cremation equipment. Options range from simple cardboard eco-coffins to beautiful wooden coffins with minimal or no metal fixtures.

How much should I expect to spend on a coffin?

Coffin prices vary widely from €250 for basic options to €3,000+ for premium hardwood caskets. We offer choices across all price ranges and will work with your budget to find a dignified option that meets your needs.

Useful Information:

Irish coffin makers are renowned for their craftsmanship and attention to detail
Consider the deceased’s environmental values when choosing materials
Some families keep small pieces of wood from the coffin as memorial keepsakes
Burial vaults are not commonly used in Ireland, unlike some other countries
Weight restrictions may apply for international repatriation – we can advise on suitable options
Many coffin manufacturers offer payment plans to help manage costs during difficult times
Traditional Irish coffins often feature Celtic designs or religious symbols that can be meaningful to families