Hi all

After this petition was made the origional petition was updated with the following text:

"PLEASE NOTE - WE REALISE EXCEPTIONS SHOULD BE MADE FOR DOGS ACCOMPANYING MOURNERS & ASSISTANCE DOGS. THEY MUST HOWEVER BE KEPT ON SHORT LEADS"

Whilst this is definitely progress it was a reaction to this petition and there is no guarantee if they take their petition forward that this wording will remain a part of it should this petition close. For context, before making thier petition they stated dogs with mourners and assistance dogs should be allowed in the cemetery but then did not put this in their petition initially - therefore I feel it cannot be relied upon that this wording will remain.

Further, how would this be monitored and enforced? Would mourners with dogs have to apply for a licence, would they get approached by strangers to prove they should be in the cemetery? We have no idea how they propose to enforce this but people should be able to mourn however is helpful to them and not have to worry about proving they are worthy to be there.

Furthermore, although mourners visiting with dogs is the main reason for this petition we want to give voice and freedom to others who respectfully use cemetries with their dogs, for instance, during hard times for a time-out or quiet contemplation or to visit war graves - the list could go on but basically we support respectful use of the cemetery by all and don't feel people should have to justify themselves.

Please keep signing and sharing and giving a voice to those who may not feel they can speak up - everyone is entitled to contribute to this proposed ban x