McKenzie announces burial ban adjustment

Local Government Minister Desmond McKenzie has announced an adjustment to the two-week ban on burials currently in force, to allow for the disposal of human remains in specially-prescribed circumstances.

Approval has been given for: the burial or cremation of bodies that are in an advanced state of decomposition; the burial or cremation of bodies that are not in an advanced state of decomposition, but have been recommended for immediate burial by the appropriate health authorities; and the burial or cremation of indigent persons who die in State care.

McKenzie noted that the proposals came about "having met with funeral directors and related stakeholders last week".

"These measures took effect on Saturday, March 13. I want to make it clear that only the clergy will be allowed to administer the final rites for persons who are buried or cremated in these three circumstances. No family gathering will be allowed. The current order prohibiting burials remains in effect," said McKenzie yesterday.

He also stated that approval has been given to allow families to obtain death certificates for submission to the Registrar General's Department, to facilitate preparations for burial once the ban is lifted.

BURIAL ORDERS

"What this means is that effective Monday, March 15, the Registrar General's Department will issue burial orders after receiving death certificates, so that families and funeral homes can make all the necessary arrangements for the final send-off of the deceased, once the ban on burials is lifted," he said. "No burials are being authorised by this change. As an additional measure to ensure compliance with the ban on burials, I also want to make it very clear that the municipal corporations will not be issuing interment orders, without which no final disposal of a body can be done."

McKenzie also indicated that the Government is considering additional proposals made by stakeholders in the industry.