Starting January 2025, RIP.ie, Ireland’s leading death notice website, will introduce a €100 fee for funeral directors to post death notices. This change marks a significant shift from the current practice where most death notices are posted for free.
RIP.ie, which was acquired by The Irish Times Group earlier this year, stated that the fee is intended to support the development and enhancement of their services. The website, which received 3.3 million views in November alone, aims to remain a trusted resource for bereaved families and those posting messages of condolence.
The introduction of the fee has sparked concerns among funeral directors. The Irish Association of Funeral Directors (IAFD) has voiced worries that the cost will likely be passed on to grieving families. They have sought clarity on the new fee structure and its implications.
John Mark Griffin, Managing Director of Griffin’s Funeral Home in Limerick, highlighted the need for transparency regarding the fee, including whether it includes VAT. He emphasised the importance of maintaining the quality of service despite the new charges.
Some funeral directors have criticised the fee as excessive, especially given the recent acquisition by The Irish Times Group. Joe Grogan, a funeral director from Galway, described the move from zero cost to €100 as a significant hit, expressing concerns about the potential for future price hikes.
Despite these concerns, RIP.ie maintains that the fee offers good value for money and that the service will continue to be free for users. They believe that investing in the platform will ensure it remains a valuable resource for the community.
The new fee will be implemented from 1 January 2025. Funeral directors have been informed through official communications from RIP.ie. The website has assured that the fee will contribute to the ongoing development of their services, ensuring that the platform remains secure and user-friendly.
RIP.ie has also clarified that there are no plans to introduce charges for users accessing the site. The platform will continue to provide free access to death notices and messages of condolence, maintaining its role as a vital resource for the Irish community.
The IAFD has requested further details on the fee structure, including whether the €100 charge includes VAT. They have also raised questions about the potential for future increases in the fee and the impact on funeral directors and their clients.
