Cemetery thefts reflect society’s sad state

It is a sign of the times we are living in when respect towards others is on the decline, this being highlighted by the desecration of our family graves at the Addolorata Cemetery, where vandalism and theft are rife.

The statement in Parliament by the minister responsible unfortunately proves that the time has come for action. To state that talks are in hand between the ministry and the police is just not good enough. One has to remember that it is not only our main cemetery that is suffering, many other small village ones are going through the same despicable problems.

I am certain that many of the thefts, especially of ornate pieces by famous artists, are being stolen to order. This is not dissimilar to thefts from churches. Nowadays there seem to be a price for everything so there exists a market for such items. Some people have no scruples and would steal anything for money; in my eyes the vandalism is a bit of a red herring to defuse the organised thefts of valuable artefacts.

I just cannot see how one can install CCTV effectively around such a vast area of different levels. Of course, the fact is that would-be perpetrators can easily disguise themselves so identifying them would be impossible. The answer has got to be 24-hour security patrols together with an education programme on values. It is obvious that some people in our society have lost respect not just for the living but for our dead as well.

It is sad to say that this problem is the same in many other countries. We all have a part to play and must report anyone or anything suspicious during our visits to the cemetery.