The cremation of bodies will be available as a service here in Antigua and Barbuda from September first.

Health Minister, Sir Molwyn Joseph, said however this will require legislation and that the chief Health Inspector, Daryl Spencer is currently studying other jurisdictions to come up with a set of regulations that will govern this operation.

Things like the handling of the ashes from the cremation are what the regulations will determine.

The health minister expressed his desire to see these operations done in a respectful manner as in his words ‘we don’t want any funny business in Antigua and Barbuda’.

Ministry sources say these services will not be provided by the government.

It is understood that a new funeral home will commence operations in the country shortly with cremation part of its service offerings.