The Editor, Sir:

I read in The Gleaner about the KSAC clamping down on illegally run funeral establishments. I read with interest since I will be starting schooling to become a funeral director in January. I know the importance of having the proper education in mortuary science to be able to handle all aspects of the business.

I was shocked to know that of 98 funeral homes in the Kingston area only seven were licensed. So that means that most of these funeral homes have no business dealing with the bereaved at a time when they are most vulnerable.

I would hope, sooner rather then later, to see these homes closed and more done to keep the profession with dignity and respect for the deceased; there is so much more in funeral service than just the preparation of one's remains.

There is paperwork that has to be done in a timely matter to help settle people's estates also the matter of death certificates.

Form an organisation

So, all the licensed funeral directors and embalmers should form an organisation and work together to keep this profession respectable. Most of these 'suitcase undertakers' are in this field for the money. People die every day and there is money to be made, but for me that will be secondary.

I am, etc.,

LARONICA CHAMBERS

lovejamaica@msn.com

Pennsylvania

Via Go-Jamaica