‘A clash of cultures’: Irish opinion split over Travellers’ elaborate headstones

Community representatives say a ‘good sendoff’ is a religious necessity, but others say it introduces a competitive element

The latest addition to Ballyhaunis cemetery in Ireland’s County Mayo towers over neighbouring headstones in a blaze of white marble and ornamentation.

Rose-wreathed pillars frame a tableau of statues showing Jesus, angels, cherubs and biblical scenes, including an engraving of Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper.