With 3.3 million users last month, the online funeral information service—which the Irish Times Group purchased earlier this year for an unknown sum—has grown to become one of Ireland's most popular websites.

Funeral directors in Ireland who publish family announcements have been notified in a letter, seen by RTÉ's Drivetime, that all notices will be subject to a €100 fee starting on January 1.

Death notices were previously provided without charge, with undertakers paying optional fees for additional site advertising.

In a letter to the Irish Times Group, the Irish Association of Funeral Directors (IAFD) asked for clarification on the increased charge and raised additional issues.

A spokeswoman stated: "When suppliers set prices beyond the control of the IAFD, which could affect our members and their clients, the association strives to voice any concerns on their behalf, as we aim to promote best practice and deliver value to both our members and their clients."

Conor Sheehan, a Labour TD, called it "horrendous to see the owners of RIP.ie seeking to profit off of death announcements" The Limerick TD stated in a statement: "It is wrong to charge people €100 to post a death notice." "RIP," he said.

I'm urging the Irish Times to change this ruling because ie has grown to be an essential community tool for people all throughout the nation.

"Funeral directors will receive the charge, but the bereaved family will ultimately bear the cost. "The announcement of a loved one’s death should not be on the basis of financial means."