Wednesday 29 August 2018

New Laws See Bodies Exhumed After 25 Years

BY XANTHE GREGORY

The Cemetery and Crematoria Amendment Regulation will see graveyard operators allowed to dig up human remains as early as 25 years after burial.

The Amendment, passed by the State Government in June, has prompted a legislative council inquiry into the impact of the decision on families with deceased loved ones.

A lack of grave sites motivated the outcome, although it is proving to be unpopular for many.

Hunter MP's have spoken out against the legislation by urging community members to submit their opinions on the controversial new laws which allow for grave sites to be re-sold.

Wallsend MP Sonia Hornery says "it's been a very uncomfortable piece of legislation and the government has tried to sneak it through."

She says it will divide different socioeconomic groups because "those who can afford it won't be forced to make the decision as to whether they can keep their loved ones grave there, so it's really unfair because people shouldn't have to make that emotional decision."

Submissions can be made until September 7 at: https://www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/committees/inquiries/Pages/inquiry-details.aspx?pk=2505