[Greens-Media] Kentucky Fried Chicken destroys Aboriginal Heritage Site

[David Shoebridge]

Kentucky Fried Chicken destroys Aboriginal Heritage Site
Media Release - 27 May 2011
 
The development of Australia’s largest Kentucky Fried Chicken
restaurant is now being branded as ‘cultural genocide’ by various
Indigenous Rights groups and activists. According to NSW Greens MP and
Planning spokesperson David Shoebridge, failings in the planning process
have led to the tragedy 
 
"This is a tragedy that didn't have to happen.  In their haste to
maximise profits, KFC have wiped out evidence of the first human
settlement in the Newcastle area.
 
"This $2.5 million development has destroyed thousands of artefacts of
cultural and scientific significance which date back almost 7000 years,
highlighting the need to review the way NSW assesses and protects
Aboriginal heritage.
 
"It is inexplicable that planning authorities allowed the building to
be constructed for the better part of a year before the excavation
report was complete.
 
"Members of the local Aboriginal community have every right to be
outraged by this unnecessary loss of a significant part of their history
and heritage dating back almost 7,000 years.
 
"Corporate greed and negligence has led to the tragic loss of one of
Australia's most significant cultural heritage sites. 
 
"KFC has a moral responsibility to return the surviving pieces to the
local Aboriginal community, and to ensure they are preserved for future
generations.
 
"This tragedy is equivalent to knocking down Stonehenge to put up a
McDonalds restaurant," Mr Shoebridge said.
 
More information: 9230 3030 | 0433 753 376
 
 
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David Shoebridge
Greens MLC
NSW Parliament
PH: (02) 9230 3030
FX: (02) 9230 2159
www.davidshoebridge.org.au