April 11, 2018
Maori protocols considered in amending Coroners Act
Grieving whanau will get more access to tupapaku once an amendment to the Coroner’s Act is passed.
A Bill which had its first reading in Parliament last night requires coroners to consider Maori cultural protocols when determining who can view, touch or remain near the body of a deceased.
Justice Minister Andrew Little says it comes out of a Maori affairs select committee inquiry into whanau access to and management of tupapaku.
He says in practice, the coroner already considers cultural and spiritual beliefs when making decisions about the access to tupapaku and approaches each request on a case-by-case basis.
The bill was referred to the Maori affairs committee.
Copyright © 2018, UMA Broadcasting Ltd: www.waateanews.com