Crematorium probe to show problems

Jan 9 2013

An investigation into a crematorium which secretly buried cremated remains of babies without their parents' knowledge could reveal a wider problem across Scotland, it has been suggested.

It emerged last month that, for 45 years, the ashes of children who were stillborn or days old were buried in a garden of remembrance at the council-owned Mortonhall Crematorium, in Edinburgh.

Parents were led to believe there would be nothing to scatter, and were therefore not offered the chance to have their children's remains returned to them. This practice is said to have ended in 2011.

The situation was discovered by child bereavement charity Sands Lothians.

Edinburgh City Council said that initial findings about Mortonhall suggested there may have been "variations in practice" throughout the country.

The local authority said its chief executive Sue Bruce will continue liaising with the Scottish Government on issues arising which "may have wider significance nationally".

In a report, which is to be considered by councillors at a meeting on Tuesday, the council recommended that an independent figure should be appointed to complete the inquiry.

Environment convener Lesley Hinds said that, after considering the views of affected families, it was "only right and proper" that someone from outside the council oversees the investigation.

Mike Rosendale, head of schools and community services, has led the inquiry to date.

Councillors have also asked independent auditors from PricewaterhouseCoopers to look through more than 100,000 records at the site.