A/HRC/23/34/Add.2
(h)
Consider the importance of Balliceaux island for the Garifuna people,
and ensure that their relation to the island as a site of remembrance is respected and
maintained;
(i)
That specific legislation be passed, making it obligatory for all private
proprietors to provide a thoroughfare for public access to beaches;
(j)
Pursue its efforts to establish a space for training and development of
cultural expressions, as well as a multi-functional cultural centre in Kingstown, to host
exhibitions and enable artists to perform, exhibit and practice. The Government is
encouraged to support the development of such venues in the communities themselves
and on the different islands. It is also important to ensure that meaningful
consultations are conducted with the communities concerned as well as with artists, so
that centres meet expectations and are suited for cultural and artistic activities.
(k)
Address concerns expressed by artisans, who need of finding places to
display and sell their craft, in a secure manner.
(l)
Address the concerns raised by Rastafarians regarding the consumption
of cannabis for religious purposes. The Special Rapporteur also encourages the
Government to enact clear directives for prisons to ensure that Rastafarians held in
prison will not have their dreadlocks cut.
(m) Address concerns expressed by small groups, such as the Maroons on
Union Island, who are striving to maintain their particular traditions, including
traditional dances and big drums, and who need greater attention and support.
65.
The Special Rapporteur recommends that the use of the “Other” category in
population censuses aimed at elucidating the ethnic composition of the population be
clarified, and that clear guidelines for enumerators be published in this respect. The
Government is also encouraged to assess whether there is need to reformulate
questions in the questionnaire for population censuses. The Government may also
develop, in collaboration with relevant communities, indicators of cultural diversity
which could be useful in terms of recognition, as well as for the planning institutions.
66.
The Special Rapporteur recommends that the Government continue its support
to the National Trust and enhance its efforts for the rapid revival of the National
Cultural Foundation. She also recommends that:
(a)
Recommendations of the National Trust be made public, including in
cases where action is not taken by the Government or the Parliament;
(b)
Procedures be established to ensure that the National Trust is
systematically consulted prior to all development projects likely to impact on cultural
heritage. The Government should envisage giving a seat to the Trust on the Planning
Board and should ensure that the National Trust is systematically consulted by the
planning authorities of privatized or semi-privatized islands, where they exist;
(c)
The Government consult the National Trust before taking measures in
relation to built heritage being considered for protected status.
67.
The Special Rapporteur recommends that the National Trust:
(a)
Improve its website as planned to ensure better dissemination of
information on the cultural heritage and history of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines,
as well as on the possibilities of becoming a member of the Trust;
(b)
14
Strengthen its relationship with schools and heritage clubs in schools;