Custom landowners and chiefs of Eratap Village on Efate have given their blessings on works for the Port Vila Memorial Garden to commence on their land.
In a custom ceremony which was highlighted by the official groundbreaking on the new cemetery yesterday, landowner representative Sam Kalpoilep proudly announced that they have "agreed" for this investment to be on their land.
He admitted that it was not an easy task to discuss and negotiate such a development with their people, but they eventually came to approve of it.
In his official address, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Internal Affairs, Ishmael Kalsakau acknowledged the custodians of the land for agreeing and allowing their land to be used as the final resting place for loved ones who passed on.
DPM Kalsakau assured the chiefs and people of Eratap that the government would play its part to ensure it completes the payment of the land this year.
The Memorial Garden is not just a burial garden. It was designed to also stimulate economic activities that can generate income for the community.
The Master Plan is designed to host a flower garden to allow the commercial growing of flowers for the export market; thus generating revenue income to help offset the operating costs.
It will also accommodate a chapel, a crematorium, and columbarium sites.
Town Clerk, Peter Sakita said the Council of Ministers (COM) will have to meet and approve the project before actual works start.
He also confirmed that they have received a green light from a commercial bank to obtain a loan for this Memorial Garden project.
The current cemetery which is around five hectares is running out of space, given the rapid population growth. It has been used since the 1800s.
The new site is approximately 20 hectares.