Worst Forms of Child Labour Convention, 1999 (No. 182) - Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (Ratification: 2001)

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2023, published 112nd ILC session (2024)

Previous comment

Articles 3(a) and 7(2)(a) and (b) of the Convention. Worst forms of child labour and effective and time-bound measures. Preventing the engagement of children in the worst forms of child labour and providing the necessary direct assistance for their removal of children from these worst forms and for their rehabilitation and social integration. Sale and trafficking of children. The Committee takes note of the measures implemented by the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Unit (ATIPU) within the framework of the National Action Plan to Combat Human Trafficking (NAP) 2016-2020, including: (1) training of all stakeholders (educational institutions, public and private sectors, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and community-based organizations, faith-based organizations, the judiciary, public servants and law enforcement); (2) creation of an inter-ministerial working group against human trafficking; (3) formulation of a new NAP 2021–25; (4) spontaneous visits by the police to places of entertainment (bars, nightclubs); and (5) targeted surveillance and observation of activities at airports and seaports to identify and address cases of human trafficking. The Government indicates that victims can also be identified through: (1) monitoring and screening done by social services and NGOs; and (2) complaints made directly to the ATIPU via a telephone number or email.

The Committee notes the Government’s indication that, once a victim of human trafficking is identified, they are interviewed and screened by the ATIPU and are either repatriated if they wish and it is safe for them, or are referred to the Crisis Centre where they receive the necessary care and assistance. The Government adds that, the process also involves the instigation of criminal investigations by the ATIPU and the prosecution of perpetrators under the Prevention of Trafficking in Persons Act of 2011. While taking note of the information provided by the Government, the Committee requests it to continue to provide information on: (i) its continued efforts to combat trafficking in children, including within the framework of the NAP 2021–25; (ii) the direct assistance provided by the Care Centre to child victims of trafficking; (iii) statistical data on the number and nature of complaints received by the ATIPU via telephone or email; and (iv) the number of children who were prevented or withdrawn from trafficking and benefitted from the necessary direct assistance for their rehabilitation and social integration.

Clause (d). Identifying and reaching out to children at special risk. Children in street situations. The Committee notes that the Government does not provide information in reply to its previous requests on this point. Recalling that children who live and work on the street are particularly at risk of being engaged in the worst forms of child labour, the Committee requests the Government to provide information on: (i) the measures taken to remove children from the streets and provide them with the necessary and direct assistance to ensure their rehabilitation and social integration; and (ii) the results achieved in terms of the number of children removed and who benefitted from direct assistance.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2023, published 112nd ILC session (2024)

Previous comment

Articles 3(d) and 4(1) of the Convention. Minimum age for admission to, and determination of, hazardous work. The Committee notes, from the Government’s report, that once again there has been no progress to prohibit the employment of children under the age of 18 years in hazardous work nor to determine the types of hazardous work prohibited to children below 18 years of age. The Committee further notes that the Government provides no information on the results of the consultations, ongoing since 2013, which were intended to amend the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act (EWYPC Act) to bring it into conformity with Articles 3(d) and 4(1) of the Convention. The Committee therefore notes with regret that section 3(1) of the EWYPC Act continues to permit the employment of children in all types of work and employment, including hazardous types of work, from the age of 14 years (except for the prohibition on night work in industrial undertakings under section 3(2)). The Committee therefore urges the Government to take the necessary measures to ensure that its legislation: (i) prohibits the employment of children under 18 years of age in hazardous work; and (ii) determines the types of hazardous work prohibited to children under the age of 18 years. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on any developments made in this regard, including the status of any ongoing consultations with social partners and other stakeholders to this end.

Application of the Convention in practice. The Committee previously noted that children were found to be engaged in hazardous work, including in the agricultural sector, the commercial sex industry and the illicit trade in drugs. It notes that the Government, in reply to its previous request, merely indicates that no new statistical information is available with regard to the implementation of the Convention. In this regard, the Committee recalls the importance of providing information on the manner in which the Convention is applied in practice and emphasizes the necessity to ensure that sufficient and up-to-date data on the prevalence of the worst forms of child labour are made available to determine the magnitude of child labour and, in particular, its worst forms (see General Survey on the Fundamental Conventions of 2012, para. 647). The Committee therefore once again requests the Government to take the necessary measures to ensure that sufficient data on the situation of children involved in the worst forms of child labour are made available. It requests the Government to provide information on the nature, extent and trends of the worst forms of child labour, the number and nature of infringements reported, investigations, prosecutions, convictions and penal sanctions applied. To the extent possible, all information provided should be disaggregated by age and gender.

The Committee is raising other matters in a request addressed directly to the Government.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2021, published 110th ILC session (2022)

Articles 3(a) and 7(2)(a) and (b). Worst forms of child labour and effective and time-bound measures. Sale and trafficking of children, preventing the engagement of children in the worst forms of child labour and providing the necessary direct assistance for the removal of children from the worst forms of child labour and for their rehabilitation and social integration. The Committee previously noted the Government’s information regarding the establishment of (i) a National Task Force against Trafficking in Persons at the ministerial level chaired by the Prime Minister; (ii) an Anti-Trafficking in Persons Unit (ATIPU) to educate the general public and to investigate possible cases of human trafficking; and (iii) a crisis centre for providing appropriate accommodation and assistance to victims of trafficking. It requested the Government to provide information on the number of child victims of trafficking under the age of 18 years who had been rehabilitated in the crisis centre as well as on the impact of the measures taken by the national task force and the ATIPU in terms of the number of children who were prevented or withdrawn from trafficking and then rehabilitated.

The Committee notes an absence of information in the Government’s report. It, however, notes from the Government’s Replies to the List of Issues presented by the Human Rights Committee of March 2019 that the ATIPU, since its establishment in 2012, has investigated over 15 suspected cases of trafficking in persons, and over 20,000 students and 3,000 teachers have been sensitized about trafficking in persons. This report also indicates that a National Action Plan to Combat Human Trafficking (NAP) 2016-2020 and a Memorandum of Understanding to Combat Human Trafficking between the ATIPU and various ministries and government departments are in force (CCPR/C/VCT/Q/2/Add.1, paragraphs 89, 91, 93 and 97). Furthermore, according to the information from the official website of the Police Force of the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines in July 2021, the Criminal Justice Reform project funded by the Governments of the United States of America and the United Kingdom, handed over to the ATIPU, 30 e-learning programmes to combat human trafficking which include modules covering awareness issues around human trafficking, insight into what human trafficking entails, general indicators for human trafficking and resources available to support professionals and victims. The Committee, however, notes that the Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC), in its concluding observations of March 2017 expressed concern that (i) the State party remains a country of origin, transit and destination for trafficking in persons, including children, for the purpose of sexual exploitation and forced labour, primarily in agriculture; (ii) at the weak implementation of the Prevention of Trafficking in Persons Act, 2011 resulting in very few victims of trafficking being identified and very few perpetrators of trafficking being investigated, prosecuted and convicted; and that (iii) the protection and specialized services for child victims of trafficking anticipated in the Act have not yet been provided (CRC/C/VCT/CO/2-3, para 62). The Committee therefore requests the Government to strengthen its efforts to ensure that cases of trafficking in children, both for labour and sexual exploitation, are identified, proper investigations and prosecutions are carried out and to provide information on the penalties applied. It also requests the Government to provide information on the activities undertaken by the ATIPU as well as the measures taken within the framework of the NAP 2016-2020 to combat trafficking in children and on the measures taken to provide protection, rehabilitation and social integration assistance to children withdrawn from trafficking.

Clause (d). Identifying and reaching out to children at special risk. Street children. The Committee previously noted the Government’s information that as a result of the expanded national education system, the incidence of street children had been significantly reduced.

The Committee notes that the CRC, in its concluding observations of March 2017, recommended the Government to update and collect disintegrated data on children in street situations and based on its outcome to develop a national strategy for recovering and reintegrating children in such situations and to provide support to their families and communities in order to prevent children from living and working in the street (CRC/C/VCT/CO/2-3, para 61). Recalling that children who live and work on the street are particularly at risk of being engaged in the worst forms of child labour, the Committee requests the Government to take the necessary measures to protect these children and to provide for their rehabilitation and social integration. It requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken and the results achieved in this regard.

Application of the Convention in practice. The Committee notes that the CRC, in its concluding observations of March 2017, expressed concern that some children reportedly engage in hazardous work, including in the agricultural sector, the commercial sex industry and the illicit trade in drugs (CRC/C/VCT/CO/2-3, para. 59). The Committee therefore once again requests the Government to take the necessary measures to ensure that sufficient data on the situation of children involved in the worst forms of child labour are made available. It requests the Government to provide information on the nature, extent and trends of the worst forms of child labour, the number of children covered by the measures giving effect to the Convention, the number and nature of infringements reported, investigations, prosecutions, convictions and the penal sanctions applied. To the extent possible, all information provided should be disaggregated by age and gender.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2021, published 110th ILC session (2022)

Articles 3(d) and 4(1). Minimum age for admission to, and determination of, hazardous work. The Committee previously noted that the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act (EWYPC Act), did not contain a general prohibition on the employment of children below 18 years of age in hazardous work, other than the prohibition on night work in any industrial undertaking (section 3(2)) nor a determination of hazardous types of work prohibited to children under 18 years of age. It also noted the Government’s indication that consultations with stakeholders to address the issues related to hazardous work by children would be commenced shortly and a draft report would be prepared by the end of 2013.

The Committee notes the Government’s information in its report that there has been no new development on this matter. It notes from the Government’s report of 2021 under the Minimum Age Convention, 1973 (No.138) that the proposed consultations with the relevant stakeholders to address the issues related to hazardous work by children did not materialize due to budgetary constraints and lack of sufficient staff in the Department of Labour. The Government further states that these consultations are still on the agenda and further developments will be communicated in due course. Noting that the Government has been referring to the consultations with the stakeholders since 2013, the Committee once again expresses the firm hope that the consultations with the stakeholders including the social partners will be held in the near future and legislation relating to the prohibition on hazardous work by children under 18 years of age as well as a regulation determining the types of hazardous work prohibited to children under the age of 18 years will be adopted soon. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on any developments made in this regard.

The Committee is raising other matters in a request addressed directly to the Government.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2020, published 109th ILC session (2021)

The Committee notes with deep concern that the Government’s report has not been received. It expects that the next report will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous comments. The Committee informs the Government that, if it has not supplied replies to the points raised by 1 September 2021, then it may proceed with the examination of the application of the Convention on the basis of the information at its disposal at its next session.

Repetition

Article 7(2). Effective and time-bound measures. Clauses (a) and (b). Preventing the engagement of children in the worst forms of child labour and providing the necessary direct assistance for the removal of children from the worst forms of child labour and for their rehabilitation and social integration. Trafficking in children. The Committee notes the Government’s information that a National Task Force against Trafficking in Persons has been established at the ministerial level chaired by the Prime Minister. The Government further states that an Anti-Trafficking in Persons Unit (ATIPU) has been established to educate the general public and to investigate possible cases of human trafficking. The ATIPU has since developed a sensitization programme aimed at educating the general public, in particular children, on the issue of prevention of trafficking in persons through radio programmes, newspaper articles and presentations at schools. The Committee finally notes the Governments’ information that a crisis centre has been established for providing appropriate accommodation and assistance to victims of trafficking. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the number of child victims of trafficking under the age of 18 years who have been rehabilitated in the crisis centre. It also requests the Government to provide information on the impact of the measures taken by the national task force and the ATIPU in terms of the number of children who were prevented or withdrawn from trafficking and then rehabilitated.

Clause (d). Identifying and reaching out to children at special risk. Street children. Following its previous comments, the Committee notes the Government’s information that as a result of the expanded national education system, the incidence of street children has been significantly reduced. The Committee further notes the Government’s indication that a home for boys, namely the Liberty Lodge Boys Training Centre, houses boys who are reportedly ill disciplined. Recalling that children who live and work on the street are particularly at risk of being engaged in the worst forms of child labour, the Committee requests the Government to take the necessary measures to protect this vulnerable group, and to provide information in this regard.

Application of the Convention in practice. The Committee notes that the Government’s report does not contain any information on this point. The Committee therefore once again requests the Government to take the necessary measures to ensure that sufficient data on the situation of children involved in the worst forms of child labour are made available. It requests the Government to provide information on the nature, extent and trends of the worst forms of child labour, the number of children covered by the measures giving effect to the Convention, the number and nature of infringements reported, investigations, prosecutions, convictions and the penal sanctions applied. To the extent possible, all information provided should be disaggregated by age and sex.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2020, published 109th ILC session (2021)

The Committee notes with deep concern that the Government’s report has not been received. It is therefore bound to repeat its previous comments. The Committee informs the Government that, if it has not supplied replies to the points raised by 1 September 2021, then it may proceed with the examination of the application of the Convention on the basis of the information at its disposal at its next session.

Repetition

Articles 3(d) and 4(1). Hazardous work. The Committee previously noted that the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act (EWYPC Act), did not contain a general prohibition on the employment of children below 18 years of age in hazardous work, other than the prohibition on night work in any industrial undertaking (section 3(2)) nor a determination of hazardous types of work prohibited to children under 18 years of age.

The Committee notes the Government’s indication that consultation with stakeholders to address the issues related to hazardous work by children will be commenced shortly and a draft report will be prepared by the end of 2013. The Committee expresses the firm hope that consultations with the stakeholders including the social partners will be held in the near future and legislation relating to the prohibition on hazardous work by children under 18 years of age as well as a regulation determining the types of hazardous work prohibited to children under the age of 18 years will be adopted soon. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on any developments made in this regard.

Article 7(1). Penalties. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the application in practice of the sanctions established in the Trafficking Act of 2011 for the offences related to the sale and trafficking of children and for the use, procuring and offering of children for prostitution and child pornography.

The Committee is raising other matters in a request addressed directly to the Government.

The Committee expects that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the near future.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2019, published 109th ILC session (2021)

The Committee notes with deep concern that the Government’s report has not been received. It expects that the next report will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous comments. The Committee informs the Government that, if it has not supplied replies to the points raised by 1 September 2020, then it may proceed with the examination of the application of the Convention on the basis of the information at its disposal at its next session.

Repetition

Article 7(2). Effective and time-bound measures. Clauses (a) and (b). Preventing the engagement of children in the worst forms of child labour and providing the necessary direct assistance for the removal of children from the worst forms of child labour and for their rehabilitation and social integration. Trafficking in children. The Committee notes the Government’s information that a National Task Force against Trafficking in Persons has been established at the ministerial level chaired by the Prime Minister. The Government further states that an Anti-Trafficking in Persons Unit (ATIPU) has been established to educate the general public and to investigate possible cases of human trafficking. The ATIPU has since developed a sensitization programme aimed at educating the general public, in particular children, on the issue of prevention of trafficking in persons through radio programmes, newspaper articles and presentations at schools. The Committee finally notes the Governments’ information that a crisis centre has been established for providing appropriate accommodation and assistance to victims of trafficking. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the number of child victims of trafficking under the age of 18 years who have been rehabilitated in the crisis centre. It also requests the Government to provide information on the impact of the measures taken by the national task force and the ATIPU in terms of the number of children who were prevented or withdrawn from trafficking and then rehabilitated.

Clause (d). Identifying and reaching out to children at special risk. Street children. Following its previous comments, the Committee notes the Government’s information that as a result of the expanded national education system, the incidence of street children has been significantly reduced. The Committee further notes the Government’s indication that a home for boys, namely the Liberty Lodge Boys Training Centre, houses boys who are reportedly ill disciplined. Recalling that children who live and work on the street are particularly at risk of being engaged in the worst forms of child labour, the Committee requests the Government to take the necessary measures to protect this vulnerable group, and to provide information in this regard.

Application of the Convention in practice. The Committee notes that the Government’s report does not contain any information on this point. The Committee therefore once again requests the Government to take the necessary measures to ensure that sufficient data on the situation of children involved in the worst forms of child labour are made available. It requests the Government to provide information on the nature, extent and trends of the worst forms of child labour, the number of children covered by the measures giving effect to the Convention, the number and nature of infringements reported, investigations, prosecutions, convictions and the penal sanctions applied. To the extent possible, all information provided should be disaggregated by age and sex.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2019, published 109th ILC session (2021)

The Committee notes with deep concern that the Government’s report has not been received. It is therefore bound to repeat its previous comments. The Committee informs the Government that, if it has not supplied replies to the points raised by 1 September 2020, then it may proceed with the examination of the application of the Convention on the basis of the information at its disposal at its next session.

Repetition

Articles 3(d) and 4(1). Hazardous work. The Committee previously noted that the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act (EWYPC Act), did not contain a general prohibition on the employment of children below 18 years of age in hazardous work, other than the prohibition on night work in any industrial undertaking (section 3(2)) nor a determination of hazardous types of work prohibited to children under 18 years of age.

The Committee notes the Government’s indication that consultation with stakeholders to address the issues related to hazardous work by children will be commenced shortly and a draft report will be prepared by the end of 2013. The Committee expresses the firm hope that consultations with the stakeholders including the social partners will be held in the near future and legislation relating to the prohibition on hazardous work by children under 18 years of age as well as a regulation determining the types of hazardous work prohibited to children under the age of 18 years will be adopted soon. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on any developments made in this regard.

Article 7(1). Penalties. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the application in practice of the sanctions established in the Trafficking Act of 2011 for the offences related to the sale and trafficking of children and for the use, procuring and offering of children for prostitution and child pornography.

The Committee is raising other matters in a request addressed directly to the Government.

The Committee expects that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the near future.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2018, published 108th ILC session (2019)

The Committee notes with concern that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that the next report will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous comments initially made in 2013.

Repetition

Article 7(2). Effective and time-bound measures. Clauses (a) and (b). Preventing the engagement of children in the worst forms of child labour and providing the necessary direct assistance for the removal of children from the worst forms of child labour and for their rehabilitation and social integration. Trafficking in children. The Committee notes the Government’s information that a National Task Force against Trafficking in Persons has been established at the ministerial level chaired by the Prime Minister. The Government further states that an Anti-Trafficking in Persons Unit (ATIPU) has been established to educate the general public and to investigate possible cases of human trafficking. The ATIPU has since developed a sensitization programme aimed at educating the general public, in particular children, on the issue of prevention of trafficking in persons through radio programmes, newspaper articles and presentations at schools. The Committee finally notes the Governments’ information that a crisis centre has been established for providing appropriate accommodation and assistance to victims of trafficking. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the number of child victims of trafficking under the age of 18 years who have been rehabilitated in the crisis centre. It also requests the Government to provide information on the impact of the measures taken by the national task force and the ATIPU in terms of the number of children who were prevented or withdrawn from trafficking and then rehabilitated.

Clause (d). Identifying and reaching out to children at special risk. Street children. Following its previous comments, the Committee notes the Government’s information that as a result of the expanded national education system, the incidence of street children has been significantly reduced. The Committee further notes the Government’s indication that a home for boys, namely the Liberty Lodge Boys Training Centre, houses boys who are reportedly ill disciplined. Recalling that children who live and work on the street are particularly at risk of being engaged in the worst forms of child labour, the Committee requests the Government to take the necessary measures to protect this vulnerable group, and to provide information in this regard.

Application of the Convention in practice. The Committee notes that the Government’s report does not contain any information on this point. The Committee therefore once again requests the Government to take the necessary measures to ensure that sufficient data on the situation of children involved in the worst forms of child labour are made available. It requests the Government to provide information on the nature, extent and trends of the worst forms of child labour, the number of children covered by the measures giving effect to the Convention, the number and nature of infringements reported, investigations, prosecutions, convictions and the penal sanctions applied. To the extent possible, all information provided should be disaggregated by age and sex.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2018, published 108th ILC session (2019)

The Committee notes with concern that the Government’s report has not been received. It is therefore bound to repeat its previous comments initially made in 2013.

Repetition

Articles 3(d) and 4(1). Hazardous work. The Committee previously noted that the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act (EWYPC Act), did not contain a general prohibition on the employment of children below 18 years of age in hazardous work, other than the prohibition on night work in any industrial undertaking (section 3(2)) nor a determination of hazardous types of work prohibited to children under 18 years of age.

The Committee notes the Government’s indication that consultation with stakeholders to address the issues related to hazardous work by children will be commenced shortly and a draft report will be prepared by the end of 2013. The Committee expresses the firm hope that consultations with the stakeholders including the social partners will be held in the near future and legislation relating to the prohibition on hazardous work by children under 18 years of age as well as a regulation determining the types of hazardous work prohibited to children under the age of 18 years will be adopted soon. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on any developments made in this regard.

Article 7(1). Penalties. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the application in practice of the sanctions established in the Trafficking Act of 2011 for the offences related to the sale and trafficking of children and for the use, procuring and offering of children for prostitution and child pornography.

The Committee is raising other matters in a request addressed directly to the Government.

The Committee hopes that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the near future.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2017, published 107th ILC session (2018)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that the next report will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous comments initially made in 2013. The Committee also notes that the Government had been requested to provide information to the Committee on the Application of Standards at the 106th Session of the International Labour Conference for failure to supply reports and information on the application of ratified Conventions.

Repetition

Article 7(2). Effective and time-bound measures. Clauses (a) and (b). Preventing the engagement of children in the worst forms of child labour and providing the necessary direct assistance for the removal of children from the worst forms of child labour and for their rehabilitation and social integration. Trafficking in children. The Committee notes the Government’s information that a National Task Force against Trafficking in Persons has been established at the ministerial level chaired by the Prime Minister. The Government further states that an Anti-Trafficking in Persons Unit (ATIPU) has been established to educate the general public and to investigate possible cases of human trafficking. The ATIPU has since developed a sensitization programme aimed at educating the general public, in particular children, on the issue of prevention of trafficking in persons through radio programmes, newspaper articles and presentations at schools. The Committee finally notes the Governments’ information that a crisis centre has been established for providing appropriate accommodation and assistance to victims of trafficking. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the number of child victims of trafficking under the age of 18 years who have been rehabilitated in the crisis centre. It also requests the Government to provide information on the impact of the measures taken by the national task force and the ATIPU in terms of the number of children who were prevented or withdrawn from trafficking and then rehabilitated.

Clause (d). Identifying and reaching out to children at special risk. Street children. Following its previous comments, the Committee notes the Government’s information that as a result of the expanded national education system, the incidence of street children has been significantly reduced. The Committee further notes the Government’s indication that a home for boys, namely the Liberty Lodge Boys Training Centre, houses boys who are reportedly ill disciplined. Recalling that children who live and work on the street are particularly at risk of being engaged in the worst forms of child labour, the Committee requests the Government to take the necessary measures to protect this vulnerable group, and to provide information in this regard.

Application of the Convention in practice. The Committee notes that the Government’s report does not contain any information on this point. The Committee therefore once again requests the Government to take the necessary measures to ensure that sufficient data on the situation of children involved in the worst forms of child labour are made available. It requests the Government to provide information on the nature, extent and trends of the worst forms of child labour, the number of children covered by the measures giving effect to the Convention, the number and nature of infringements reported, investigations, prosecutions, convictions and the penal sanctions applied. To the extent possible, all information provided should be disaggregated by age and sex.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2017, published 107th ILC session (2018)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It is therefore bound to repeat its previous comments initially made in 2013. The Committee also notes that the Government had been requested to provide information to the Committee on the Application of Standards at the 106th Session of the International Labour Conference for failure to supply reports and information on the application of ratified Conventions.

Repetition

Articles 3(d) and 4(1). Hazardous work. The Committee previously noted that the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act (EWYPC Act), did not contain a general prohibition on the employment of children below 18 years of age in hazardous work, other than the prohibition on night work in any industrial undertaking (section 3(2)) nor a determination of hazardous types of work prohibited to children under 18 years of age.

The Committee notes the Government’s indication that consultation with stakeholders to address the issues related to hazardous work by children will be commenced shortly and a draft report will be prepared by the end of 2013. The Committee expresses the firm hope that consultations with the stakeholders including the social partners will be held in the near future and legislation relating to the prohibition on hazardous work by children under 18 years of age as well as a regulation determining the types of hazardous work prohibited to children under the age of 18 years will be adopted soon. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on any developments made in this regard.

Article 7(1). Penalties. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the application in practice of the sanctions established in the Trafficking Act of 2011 for the offences related to the sale and trafficking of children and for the use, procuring and offering of children for prostitution and child pornography.

The Committee is raising other matters in a request addressed directly to the Government.

The Committee hopes that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the near future.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2016, published 106th ILC session (2017)

The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that the next report will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous comments.

Repetition

Article 7(2). Effective and time-bound measures. Clauses (a) and (b). Preventing the engagement of children in the worst forms of child labour and providing the necessary direct assistance for the removal of children from the worst forms of child labour and for their rehabilitation and social integration. Trafficking in children. The Committee notes the Government’s information that a National Task Force Against Trafficking in Persons has been established at the ministerial level chaired by the Prime Minister. The Government further states that an Anti-Trafficking in Persons Unit (ATIPU) has been established to educate the general public and to investigate possible cases of human trafficking. The ATIPU has since developed a sensitization programme aimed at educating the general public, in particular children, on the issue of prevention of trafficking in persons through radio programmes, newspaper articles and presentations at schools. The Committee finally notes the Governments’ information that a crisis centre has been established for providing appropriate accommodation and assistance to victims of trafficking. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the number of child victims of trafficking under the age of 18 years who have been rehabilitated in the crisis centre. It also requests the Government to provide information on the impact of the measures taken by the national task force and the ATIPU in terms of the number of children who were prevented or withdrawn from trafficking and then rehabilitated.

Clause (d). Identifying and reaching out to children at special risk. Street children. Following its previous comments, the Committee notes the Government’s information that as a result of the expanded national education system, the incidence of street children has been significantly reduced. The Committee further notes the Government’s indication that a home for boys, namely the Liberty Lodge Boys Training Centre, houses boys who are reportedly ill disciplined. Recalling that children who live and work on the street are particularly at risk of being engaged in the worst forms of child labour, the Committee requests the Government to take the necessary measures to protect this vulnerable group, and to provide information in this regard.

Application of the Convention in practice. The Committee notes that the Government’s report does not contain any information on this point. The Committee therefore once again requests the Government to take the necessary measures to ensure that sufficient data on the situation of children involved in the worst forms of child labour are made available. It requests the Government to provide information on the nature, extent and trends of the worst forms of child labour, the number of children covered by the measures giving effect to the Convention, the number and nature of infringements reported, investigations, prosecutions, convictions and the penal sanctions applied. To the extent possible, all information provided should be disaggregated by age and sex.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2016, published 106th ILC session (2017)

The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It is therefore bound to repeat its previous comments.

Repetition

Articles 3(d) and 4(1). Hazardous work. The Committee previously noted that the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act (EWYPC Act), did not contain a general prohibition on the employment of children below 18 years of age in hazardous work, other than the prohibition on night work in any industrial undertaking (section 3(2)) nor a determination of hazardous types of work prohibited to children under 18 years of age.

The Committee notes the Government’s indication that consultation with stakeholders to address the issues related to hazardous work by children will be commenced shortly and a draft report will be prepared by the end of 2013. The Committee expresses the firm hope that consultations with the stakeholders including the social partners will be held in the near future and legislation relating to the prohibition on hazardous work by children under 18 years of age as well as a regulation determining the types of hazardous work prohibited to children under the age of 18 years will be adopted soon. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on any developments made in this regard.

Article 7(1). Penalties. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the application in practice of the sanctions established in the Trafficking Act of 2011 for the offences related to the sale and trafficking of children and for the use, procuring and offering of children for prostitution and child pornography.

The Committee is raising other matters in a request addressed directly to the Government.

The Committee hopes that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the near future.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2013, published 103rd ILC session (2014)

Article 3 of the Convention. Worst forms of child labour. Clause (c). Use, procuring or offering of a child for illicit activities. Following its previous comments, the Committee notes that according to section 5(2) of the Prevention of Trafficking in Persons Act of 2011 the recruitment, transportation, harbouring or receipt of a child or giving of payment or benefits to obtain the consent of a person having control of a child, for the purpose of exploitation shall be punished. The Committee notes with interest that the definition of the term “exploitation” includes causing a person to transport illegal items within or across borders.

Article 7(2). Effective and time-bound measures. Clauses (a) and (b). Preventing the engagement of children in the worst forms of child labour and providing the necessary direct assistance for the removal of children from the worst forms of child labour and for their rehabilitation and social integration. Trafficking in children. The Committee notes the Government’s information that a National Task Force Against Trafficking in Persons has been established at the ministerial level chaired by the Prime Minister. The Government further states that an Anti-Trafficking in Persons Unit (ATIPU) has been established to educate the general public and to investigate possible cases of human trafficking. The ATIPU has since developed a sensitization programme aimed at educating the general public, in particular children, on the issue of prevention of trafficking in persons through radio programmes, newspaper articles and presentations at schools. The Committee finally notes the Governments’ information that a crisis centre has been established for providing appropriate accommodation and assistance to victims of trafficking. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the number of child victims of trafficking under the age of 18 years who have been rehabilitated in the crisis centre. It also requests the Government to provide information on the impact of the measures taken by the national task force and the ATIPU in terms of the number of children who were prevented or withdrawn from trafficking and then rehabilitated.

Clause (d). Identifying and reaching out to children at special risk. Street children. Following its previous comments, the Committee notes the Government’s information that as a result of the expanded national education system, the incidence of street children has been significantly reduced. The Committee further notes the Government’s indication that a home for boys, namely the Liberty Lodge Boys Training Centre, houses boys who are reportedly ill-disciplined. Recalling that children who live and work on the street are particularly at risk of being engaged in the worst forms of child labour, the Committee requests the Government to take the necessary measures to protect this vulnerable group, and to provide information in this regard.

Part V of the report form. Application of the Convention in practice. The Committee notes that the Government’s report does not contain any information on this point. The Committee therefore once again requests the Government to take the necessary measures to ensure that sufficient data on the situation of children involved in the worst forms of child labour are made available. It requests the Government to provide information on the nature, extent and trends of the worst forms of child labour, the number of children covered by the measures giving effect to the Convention, the number and nature of infringements reported, investigations, prosecutions, convictions and the penal sanctions applied. To the extent possible, all information provided should be disaggregated by age and sex.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2013, published 103rd ILC session (2014)

Article 3 of the Convention. Worst forms of child labour. Clause (a). Slavery or practices similar to slavery. Sale and trafficking of children. Following its previous comments, the Committee notes with satisfaction that according to sections 5(2) and 8(1)(d) of the Prevention of Trafficking in Persons Act of 2011 (Trafficking Act of 2011) the recruitment, transportation, harbouring or receipt of a child (defined as persons under the age of 18 years), or giving of payment or benefits to obtain the consent of a person having control of a child, for the purpose of exploitation constitutes an aggravated offence of trafficking in persons and shall be liable to imprisonment of up to 20 years.

Clause (b). Use, procuring or offering of a child for prostitution, for the production of pornography or for pornographic performances. The Committee previously noted that the use, procuring or offering of a child for prostitution, for the production of pornography or for pornographic performances did not appear to be prohibited in the national legislation.

The Committee notes with satisfaction that section 7 of the Trafficking Act of 2011 provides for penalties of imprisonment for 12 years or a fine of $100,000 for the offences related to transporting a person for the purposes of exploiting such a person in prostitution. Subsection 2 of section 7 further states that the above offence, if committed against a child, amounts to an aggravated offence and shall be liable to an additional imprisonment of up to 15 years. The Committee further notes that the definition of the term “exploitation” as laid down under section 2 of the Trafficking Act of 2011 includes: child pornography, exploitation of the prostitution of another, engaging in any form of commercial sexual exploitation, including but not limited to pimping, pandering, procuring, profiting from prostitution, as well as engaging in sexual exploitation and any sexual activity.

Articles 3(d) and 4(1). Hazardous work. The Committee previously noted that the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act (EWYPC Act), did not contain a general prohibition on the employment of children below 18 years of age in hazardous work, other than the prohibition on night work in any industrial undertaking (section 3(2)) nor a determination of hazardous types of work prohibited to children under 18 years of age.

The Committee notes the Government’s indication that consultation with stakeholders to address the issues related to hazardous work by children will be commenced shortly and a draft report will be prepared by the end of 2013. The Committee expresses the firm hope that consultations with the stakeholders including the social partners will be held in the near future and legislation relating to the prohibition on hazardous work by children under 18 years of age as well as a regulation determining the types of hazardous work prohibited to children under the age of 18 years will be adopted soon. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on any developments made in this regard.

Article 7(1). Penalties. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the application in practice of the sanctions established in the Trafficking Act of 2011 for the offences related to the sale and trafficking of children and for the use, procuring and offering of children for prostitution and child pornography.

The Committee is raising other points in a request addressed directly to the Government.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2011, published 101st ILC session (2012)

Article 3 of the Convention. Worst forms of child labour. Clause (a). Slavery or practices similar to slavery. Sale and trafficking of children. In its previous comments, observing that the national legislation did not contain a prohibition on the trafficking of children, the Committee requested the Government to take the necessary measures to prohibit the sale and trafficking of children under 18 years for labour and sexual exploitation.

The Committee notes with interest the Government’s indication that the Parliament passed the Human Trafficking Act in October 2011 which prohibits the sale and trafficking of children under 18 years. The Committee requests the Government to supply a copy of the Human Trafficking Act of 2011 along with its next report.

Clause (b). Use, procuring or offering of a child for prostitution, for the production of pornography or for pornographic performances. The Committee previously noted that the use, procuring or offering of a child for prostitution, for the production of pornography or for pornographic performances did not appear to be prohibited in the national legislation. The Committee notes the Government’s statement that it will take the necessary measures to prohibit the use, procuring or offering of a child under 18 years for prostitution, for the production of pornography and for pornographic performances. Recalling that under the terms of Article 3(b) of the Convention, the use, procuring or offering of children under 18 years for prostitution, for the production of pornography or for pornographic performances constitutes one of the worst forms of child labour and that in accordance with Article 1 of the Convention, each Member which ratifies the Convention must take immediate and effective measures to ensure the prohibition and elimination of the worst forms of child labour, the Committee urges the Government to take the necessary measures, without delay, to prohibit the use, procuring or offering of a child under 18 years for prostitution, for the production of pornography or for pornographic performances.

Clause (c). Use, procuring or offering of a child for illicit activities. Following its previous comments, the Committee notes the Government’s indication that measures will be taken to bring about a prohibition on the use, procuring or offering of a child for illicit activities, in particular the production and trafficking of drugs. Recalling once again the principles underlined in Article 3(c) read in conjunction with Article 1 of the Convention, the Committee urges the Government to take the necessary measures to ensure that the use, procuring or offering of a child under 18 years of age for illicit activities, in particular for the production and trafficking of drugs, is expressly prohibited in the national legislation, as a matter of urgency.

Clause (d). Hazardous work. The Committee previously noted that the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act (EWYPC Act), did not contain a general prohibition on the employment of children below 18 years in hazardous work, other than the prohibition on night work in any industrial undertaking (section 3(2)). The Committee notes the Government’s indication that no initiative has been taken so far to prohibit or regulate the employment of children under 18 years. However, the Committee notes the Government’s statement that the issue will be discussed during the tripartite consultations to be held by the end of 2011. The Committee expresses the firm hope that the Government will take the necessary measures to ensure that legislation relating to the prohibition on hazardous work by children under 18 years will be finalized and adopted in the near future. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on any developments made in this regard.

Article 4(1). Determination of hazardous work. Following its previous comments, the Committee notes the Government’s information that efforts have begun to determine the types of hazardous work prohibited to children under 18 years. The Committee notes from the Government’s report that the tripartite constituents from several CARICOM countries attended a workshop held in Grenada in October 2011 to develop a list of types of hazardous work in their respective countries. The Committee also notes the Government’s indication that the Department of Labour, the tripartite partners and other stakeholders will begin the process of compiling a list of types of hazardous work prohibited to children under 18 years, taking into consideration Paragraph 3 of Recommendation No. 190. The Committee expresses the firm hope that the Government will take the necessary measures to ensure that a list of types of hazardous work prohibited to children under 18 years is developed in the near future. It requests the Government to provide information on any progress made in this regard.

Article 7(2). Effective and time-bound measures. Clause (d). Identifying and reaching out to children at special risk. Child victims of sexual exploitation and street boys. The Committee previously noted that, according to the Government’s report to the Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC/C/28/Add.18, paragraph 384), there were cases where children were involved in prostitution, especially street boys who were found to be involved in unlawful sexual practices with men for reward. The Committee also noted that in its concluding observations (CRC/C/15/Add.184, paragraph 47), the CRC recommended the Government to undertake studies to examine the phenomenon and to develop policies and programmes for the prevention, recovery and reintegration of these child victims.

The Committee notes the Government’s statement that no study or data are available on the prevalence of sexual exploitation of children, including boys, and therefore, no measures have been taken for their withdrawal and rehabilitation. The Committee notes, however, the Government’s statement that measures will be taken by the competent authorities to combat the commercial sexual exploitation of children and for their rehabilitation. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken for the withdrawal and rehabilitation of children involved in commercial sexual exploitation, including boys. Moreover, considering that street children are particularly exposed to the worst forms of child labour, the Committee requests the Government to take the necessary measures to protect these children from the worst forms of child labour.

Part V of the report form. Application of the Convention in practice. The Committee notes the Government’s statement that so far no infringements, prosecutions, convictions or penal sanctions have been recorded at the law enforcement agencies or by the labour inspectors concerning the worst forms of child labour. The Committee notes, however, the Government’s information that data and information on the nature, extent and trends of the worst forms of child labour are still not available. The Committee once again requests the Government to take the necessary measures to ensure that sufficient data on the situation of children involved in the worst forms of child labour are made available. It requests the Government to provide information on the nature, extent and trends of the worst forms of child labour, the number of children covered by the measures giving effect to the Convention, the number and nature of infringements reported, investigations, prosecutions, convictions and the penal sanctions applied. To the extent possible, all information provided should be disaggregated by age and sex.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2009, published 99th ILC session (2010)

Article 3 of the Convention. Worst forms of child labour. Clause (a). Slavery or practices similar to slavery. Sale and trafficking of children. The Committee had previously noted the information contained in the Government’s report (CRC/C/28/Add.18, paragraph 386) to the Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC) that the Adoption Act contained provisions geared towards controlling the use of adoption as a hidden form of promoting the sale and trafficking in children. The Committee notes, however, that the Adoption of Children Act only contains provisions related to the procedure for the adoption of children, and restrictions on sending children abroad for adoption. The Committee further notes that according to a report entitled “Trafficking in persons report 2009 – Saint Vincent and the Grenadines”, available at the site of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (www.unhcr.org), there are no specific or comprehensive laws in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines which prohibit trafficking in persons, although slavery and forced labour are both constitutionally prohibited. The Committee reminds the Government that, by virtue of Article 3(a), the sale and trafficking of children constitute one of the worst forms of child labour and are therefore prohibited for children under 18 years of age. The Committee therefore urges the Government to take the necessary measures to prohibit the sale and trafficking of children under 18 years for labour and sexual exploitation.

Clause (b). Use, procuring or offering of a child for prostitution, for the production of pornography or for pornographic performances. The Committee had previously noted the Government’s statement that no specific measures had been taken with regard to this issue. However, it had noted the information contained in the Government’s report to the CRC (CRC/C/28/Add.18,
paragraphs 227–231) that there are a growing number of children who are reportedly involved in prostitution. The Committee notes the Government’s statement that the implementation of the Education Act of 2006 which provides for compulsory education up to the age of 16 years has contributed significantly to the elimination of “street children” who are the most vulnerable to prostitution. Nevertheless, the Committee once again reminds the Government that, under the terms of Article 3(b) of the Convention, the use, procuring or offering of a child for prostitution, for the production of pornography or for pornographic performances, constitutes one of the worst forms of child labour and that, in accordance with Article 1 of the Convention, each Member which ratifies the Convention must take immediate and effective measures to secure the prohibition and elimination of the worst forms of child labour. The Committee therefore requests the Government to take the necessary measures to prohibit the use, procuring or offering of children under 18 years of age for prostitution, for the production of pornography or for pornographic performances, and to adopt corresponding sanctions.

Clause (c). Use, procuring or offering of a child for illicit activities. The Committee notes the Government’s statement that the use of a child for illicit activities is prohibited. It notes that by virtue of section 9 of the Juveniles Act (Cap. 168), any person who causes or procures any juvenile or having the custody, charge or care of a juvenile, allows him to be in any street, premises or place for the purpose of begging or receiving alms, or of inducing the giving of alms shall be guilty of an offence. A “juvenile”, according to section 2 of this Act, refers to a person under the age of 16 years. It notes, however, that there appear to be no provisions prohibiting the use, procuring or offering of children for the production and trafficking of drugs. The Committee once again recalls that, by virtue of Article 3(c) of the Convention, the use, procuring or offering of a child for illicit activities, including for the production and trafficking of drugs as well as for begging, constitutes one of the worst forms of child labour and shall therefore be prohibited for children under 18 years. The Committee accordingly urges the Government to take immediate measures to ensure that the use, procuring or offering of a child under18 years of age for illicit activities, in particular for the production and trafficking of drugs, is prohibited. It also requests the Government to indicate the measures taken or envisaged to prohibit the use, procuring or offering of children under 18 for begging.

Clause (d). Hazardous work. The Committee had previously noted that the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act (EWYPC Act), did not contain a general prohibition on the employment of children below 18 years in hazardous work, other than the prohibition on night work in any industrial undertaking (section 3(2)). It had also noted that, according to the Government’s report to the CRC (CRC/C/28/Add.18, paragraph 41), there is no specific provision in the EWYPC Act for a higher age limit for employment which, by its nature and the circumstances in which it is carried out, is dangerous to the life, health or morals of the persons employed. The Committee had reminded the Government that by virtue of Article 3(d), of the Convention, work which, by its nature or circumstances in which it is carried out, is likely to harm the health, safety and morals of children, is considered to be one of the worst forms of child labour and consequently forbidden for children under 18 years of age. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that the matter will be drawn to the attention of the competent authority. The Committee requests the Government to take immediate measures to prohibit the employment of children under 18 years in work which, by its nature or circumstances in which it is carried out, is likely to harm the health, safety and morals of children. It requests the Government to provide information on any developments made in this regard.

Article 4, paragraph 1. Determination of hazardous work. In its previous comments, the Committee had noted that the EWYPC Act only refers to the prohibition for persons under 18 years of age to perform night work in any industrial undertaking. In defining the term “industrial undertaking”, this Act makes reference to the definition contained in the Minimum Age (Industry) Convention (Revised), 1937 (No. 59), annexed in Part I of the Schedule. It had further noted that, according to section 6 of the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act, the Governor-General may make regulations in respect of the health, welfare and safety of women, young persons and children in any industrial undertaking. However, the Committee had observed that no information is available on such regulations. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that it has scheduled a series of tripartite consultations that would examine this matter over the course of next three months. The Committee expresses the firm hope that the Government will take the necessary measures to develop a list of hazardous activities and occupations prohibited to persons below 18 years of age, pursuant to section 6 of the EWYPC Act, in the near future. In determining the types of work to be considered as hazardous, the Committee trusts that due consideration will be given to Paragraph 3 of Recommendation No. 190 in this regard. It requests the Government to provide information on any developments made in this regard.

Article 5. Monitoring mechanisms. The Committee had previously noted that, by virtue of the EWYPC Act, the Labour Commissioner and police officers have procedural and inspection powers related to the employment of children or young persons in contravention of the EWYPC Act. It had also noted that, by virtue of section 6 of the EWYPC Act, the Governor-General may make regulations in respect of the inspection and supervision of the employment in industrial undertakings of children and young persons. The Committee notes the information provided by the Government in its report under Convention No. 81 that there are a total of five labour officers who are assigned with the responsibility of conducting labour inspections throughout the State, including travelling by air to the islands in the Grenadines. It also notes the Government’s indication that the insufficient number of labour inspectors has limited the number of inspections conducted every year. It further notes the Government’s indication that 61 inspections were conducted in 2006, 17 inspections in 2007, and 53 inspections were conducted in 2008. The Committee finally notes the Government’s statement that from the records, it appears that no employer has ever been prosecuted for violation of the law. The Committee requests the Government to continue providing information on the inspections carried out by the labour inspectorates, and to provide extracts of the inspection reports specifying the extent and nature of violations detected involving children and young persons involved in the worst forms of child labour. It also requests the Government to indicate any measures adopted or envisaged to strengthen the labour inspectorate. It further requests the Government to indicate whether any other monitoring mechanisms have been established to secure the application of the provisions of Article 3(a) to (c) of the Convention.

Article 7, paragraph 2. Effective and time-bound measures. Clause (a). Prevent the engagement of children in the worst forms of child labour. Education. The Committee notes that according to Part III of the Education Act of 2006, education shall be free and compulsory for all children from the age of 5 years to 16 years. Section 40(1) of the Act further requires every parent of a child of compulsory school age to cause the child to regularly attend school. The Committee notes the Government’s statement that its policy of universal access to secondary education has eliminated the gap between the percentage of children who complete primary education and those who enter secondary education. The Government further states that every child of school age now has access to secondary education.

Clause (d). Identifying and reaching out to children at special risk. Child victims of sexual exploitation and street boys. The Committee had previously noted that, according to the Government’s report to the CRC (CRC/C/28/Add.18, paragraph 384), the use of children in prostitution had emerged in relation to crimes of sexual abuse against children. The report further stated that there were cases where children were involved in prostitution and street children, especially boys were found to be involved in unlawful sexual practices with men for reward. The Committee had also noted that in its concluding observations (CRC/C/15/Add.184, paragraph 47), the CRC recommended the Government to undertake studies to examine the phenomena and to develop policies and programmes for the prevention, recovery and reintegration of these child victims. The Committee notes the Government’s statement that the implementation of the Education Act of 2006 and the ongoing public awareness campaign on the rights of the child have contributed significantly to the elimination of street children, who are the most vulnerable to prostitution. Considering that street children are particularly exposed to the worst forms of child labour, the Committee requests the Government to take the necessary measures to protect these children from the worst forms of child labour. It also requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken for the withdrawal and rehabilitation of children involved in commercial sexual exploitation, including boys.

Parts IV and V of the report form. Application of the Convention in practice. The Committee notes the Government’s statement that reports on the nature and extent of the worst forms of child labour are not available. The Government further states that it continues to experience serious difficulties in obtaining the required data and information on child labour due to the ineffective functioning of the key committees responsible for such surveys as well as the incapacity of some ministries and government departments to produce and disseminate timely data. The Committee expresses its regret at the insufficient data on working children and young persons and it strongly urges the Government to take the necessary measures to ensure that sufficient data on the situation of working children and those in the worst forms of child labour is available. It requests the Government to provide information on the nature, extent and trends of the worst forms of child labour, the number of children covered by the measures giving effect to the Convention, the number and nature of infringements reported, investigations, prosecutions, convictions and the penal sanctions applied. To the extent possible, all information provided should be disaggregated by sex.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2008, published 98th ILC session (2009)

The Committee notes with regret that, for the fourth consecutive year, the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

Article 3 of the Convention. Worst forms of child labour. Clause (a). Slavery or practices similar to slavery. Sale and trafficking of children. The Committee noted the absence of information on this issue in the Government’s report. It noted the information contained in the Government’s report to the Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC/C/28/Add.18, paragraph 386), that the Adoption Act contains provisions geared towards controlling the use of adoption as a hidden form of promoting the sale and trafficking in children. The Committee reminded the Government that, by virtue of Article 3(a), the sale and trafficking of children constitute one of the worst forms of child labour and are therefore prohibited for children under 18 years of age. It asks the Government to provide information on the measures taken or envisaged to prohibit the sale and trafficking of children in conformity with Article 3(a) and to supply the text of the Adoption Act and of any other relevant legislation.

Clause (b). Use, procuring or offering of a child for prostitution, for the production of pornography or for pornographic performances. The Committee noted the Government’s information that no specific measures have been taken with regard to this issue. However, it noted the information contained in the Government’s report to the Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC/C/28/Add.18, paragraphs 227–231) that there is a growing number of children who are reportedly involved in prostitution. The Committee reminded the Government that, under the terms of Article 3(b) of the Convention, the use, procuring or offering of a child for prostitution, for the production of pornography or for pornographic performances, constitutes one of the worst forms of child labour and that, in accordance with Article 1 of the Convention, each Member which ratifies the Convention must take immediate and effective measures to secure the prohibition and elimination of the worst forms of child labour. The Committee therefore requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken or envisaged to prohibit the use, procuring or offering of children under 18 years of age for prostitution, for the production of pornography or for pornographic performances, and sanctions envisaged.

Clause (c). Use, procuring or offering of a child for illicit activities. The Committee noted the Government’s information that no specific measures have been taken on this issue. The Committee recalled that Article 3(c) of the Convention provides that the use, procuring or offering of a child for illicit activities, in particular for the production and trafficking of drugs, constitutes one of the worst forms of child labour. Therefore, it requests the Government to indicate whether the use of a child for illicit activities is prohibited and, if so, to indicate the applicable legislation and penalties.

Clause (d). Hazardous work. The Committee noted that section 3(1) of the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act provides that no child (under 14 years of age) shall be employed in any industrial undertaking. The employment of a child on any ship is also prohibited (section 4(1)). As for young people between 14 and 18, section 3(2) only prohibits night-time employment in industry. The Committee considered that the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act does not contain a general prohibition on the employment of children below 18 years in hazardous work. The Committee further noted that, according to the Government’s report to the Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC/C/28/Add.18, paragraph 41), in the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act there is no specific provision for a higher age limit for employment which, by its nature and the circumstances in which it is carried out, is dangerous to the life, health or morals of the persons employed therein. Therefore, the age limit for hazardous employment remains 14 years. The Committee reminded the Government that by virtue of Article 3, paragraph (d), of the Convention, work which, by its nature or circumstances in which it is carried out, is likely to harm the health, safety and morals of children, is considered to be one of the worst forms of child labour and consequently forbidden for children under 18 years of age. It requests the Government to indicate the measures taken or envisaged to ensure that hazardous work is not performed by children under 18 years of age.

Article 4, paragraph 1. Determination of hazardous work. The Committee noted the Government’s statement that the current legislation defines work that is hazardous. Nevertheless, it notes that the Employment of Women, Young Person and Children Act only refers to the prohibition for persons under 18 years of age to perform night work in any industrial undertaking. In defining the term “industrial undertaking”, this Act makes reference to the definition contained in the Minimum Age (Industry) Convention (Revised), 1937 (No. 59), annexed in Part I of the Schedule. The Committee noted that, according to section 6 of the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act, the Governor-General may make regulations in respect of the health, welfare and safety of women, young persons and children in any industrial undertaking. However, the Committee observed that no information is available on such regulations. The Committee reminded the Government that, by virtue of Article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention, the types of hazardous work referred to under Article 3(d) shall be determined by national laws or regulations or by the competent authority, after consultation with the organizations of employers and workers concerned, taking into consideration relevant international standards, in particular Paragraph 3 of the Worst Forms of Child Labour Recommendation, 1999 (No. 190). This Paragraph states that in determining the types of such hazardous work, consideration should be given, inter alia, to: (a) work which exposes children to physical, psychological or sexual abuse; (b) work underground, under water, at dangerous heights or in confined spaces; (c) work with dangerous machinery, equipment and tools, or which involves the manual handling or transport of heavy loads; (d) work in an unhealthy environment which may, for example, expose children to hazardous substances, agents or processes, or to temperatures, noise levels, or vibrations damaging to the health; (e) work under particularly difficult conditions such as work for long hours or during the night or work where the child is unreasonably confined to the premises of the employer. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken or envisaged to determine the types of work to be considered as hazardous and which are to be prohibited for children under 18 years of age. In determining the types of work to be considered as hazardous, the Committee trusts that due consideration will be given to Paragraph 3 of Recommendation No. 190 in this regard. It also asks the Government to provide information on tripartite consultations held on this matter.

Article 5. Monitoring mechanisms. The Committee noted that, by virtue of the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act, the Labour Commissioner and police officers have procedural and inspection powers related to the employment of children or young persons in contravention of the Act. It also noted that, by virtue of section 6 of the same Act, the Governor-General may make regulations in respect of the inspection and supervision of the employment in industrial undertakings of young persons and children. The Committee asks the Government to provide information on the inspections carried out by the Labour Commissioner and police officers, and to provide extracts of the inspection reports specifying the extent and nature of violations detected involving children and young persons involved in the worst forms of child labour. It also asks the Government to indicate the consultations held with the employers’ and workers’ organizations in accordance with the provisions of this Article.

Article 6. Programmes of action to eliminate as a priority the worst forms of child labour. The Committee noted the Government’s information that no specific measures have been taken to prohibit or eliminate the worst forms of child labour, as the general feeling is that child labour is non-existent in the country. The Committee reminded the Government that even where the worst forms of child labour appear to be non-existent, the Convention requires ratifying member States to take measures to determine whether such forms of child labour exist and to ensure that they will not arise in the future. The Committee noted that in its concluding observations (CRC/C/15/Add.184, paragraph 45), the Committee on the Rights of the Child recommended to the Government to undertake a survey to assess the scope and nature of child labour in all sectors and take action to implement all legislation and policies relevant to addressing child labour and protecting the rights of children in the context of their economic exploitation. The Committee accordingly requests the Government to indicate which steps it envisages taking, in consultation with workers’ and employers’ organizations and taking into account the views of other concerned groups, to ensure that the worst forms of child labour do not exist or arise in the future in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Article 7, paragraph 1. Penalties. The Committee noted that section 5 of the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act imposes penalties of fines on anyone who employs a child or young person in any industrial undertaking in violation of Part I (Employment on Industrial Undertakings and on Ships). The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the steps taken to ensure that measures are adopted to secure the enforcement of the provisions giving effect to the Convention, including the provision and application of penal sanctions in accordance with Article 7, paragraph 1, of the Convention.

Article 7, paragraph 2. Effective and time-bound measures. Clause (a). Prevent the engagement of children in the worst forms of child labour. The Committee noted the information contained in the Government’s report that the Government’s education policy includes free basic education for all children. It also noted that, according to the Government’s report to the Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC/C/28/Add.18, paragraph 313, and CRC/C/15/Add.184, paragraph 42), education at government primary schools is free of cost. The Education Act provides for compulsory education, however it has not yet been instituted. The Government still intends to introduce compulsory education in the future. It is reported that most children complete primary school. However, there is a large gap between the percentage of children who leave primary school and those who enter secondary school. Noting the importance that education plays in preventing the worst forms of child labour, the Committee asks the Government to provide further information on the Government’s education policy and on any developments with regard to the introduction of compulsory education.

Clause (d). Identifying and reaching out to children at special risk. Child victims of sexual exploitation and street boys. The Committee noted that, according to the Government’s report to the Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC/C/28/Add.18, paragraph 384), the use of children in prostitution has emerged in relation to crimes of sexual abuse against children. There are cases where children are utilized to bring economic benefits to the home, which constitutes prostitution in effect. In addition, street children, especially boys, have been found to be involved in unlawful sexual practices with men for reward. Therefore, there needs to be more attention paid to the issue of providing alternative care for children who are involved in these situations, since often there is no place for them to go. This would also be linked to the current public awareness campaign on the dangers of sexually transmitted diseases and HIV. The Committee also noted that in its concluding observations (CRC/C/15/Add.184, paragraph 47), the Committee on the Rights of the Child recommended to the Government to undertake studies to examine the phenomena and to develop policies and programmes for the prevention, the recovery and reintegration of these child victims. The Committee further noted the Government’s statement that the situation of children at special risk is dealt with by the Ministry of Social Development. The Committee requests the Government to supply information on effective and time-bound measures taken or envisaged to address the situation of child victims of sexual exploitation and street boys and the impact of such measures on removing such children from the worst forms of child labour and providing for their rehabilitation and social integration.

The Committee requests the Government to supply specific information in relation to its efforts and concrete action taken according to Article 7(2)(e) of the Convention, to prevent the potential occurrence of the worst forms of child labour, with particular regard to the effective and time-bound measures taken to take account of the special situation of girls.

Parts IV and V of the report form. The Committee noted the Government’s statement that there is no available information on this point. It requests the Government to supply copies or extracts from official documents including studies and surveys and to provide information on the nature, extent and trends of the worst forms of child labour, the number of children covered by the measures giving effect to the Convention, the number and nature of infringements reported, investigations, prosecutions, convictions and the penal sanctions applied. To the extent possible, all information provided should be disaggregated by sex.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2007, published 97th ILC session (2008)

The Committee notes with regret that for the third consecutive year the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

Article 3 of the Convention. Worst forms of child labour. Clause (a). Slavery or practices similar to slavery. Sale and trafficking of children. The Committee noted the absence of information on this issue in the Government’s report. It noted the information contained in the Government’s report to the Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC/C/28/Add.18, paragraph 386), that the Adoption Act contains provisions geared towards controlling the use of adoption as a hidden form of promoting the sale and trafficking in children. The Committee reminded the Government that, by virtue of Article 3(a), the sale and trafficking of children constitute one of the worst forms of child labour and are therefore prohibited for children under 18 years of age. It asks the Government to provide information on the measures taken or envisaged to prohibit the sale and trafficking of children in conformity with Article 3(a) and to supply the text of the Adoption Act and of any other relevant legislation.

Clause (b). Use, procuring or offering of a child for prostitution, for the production of pornography or for pornographic performances. The Committee noted the Government’s information that no specific measures have been taken with regard to this issue. However, it noted the information contained in the Government’s report to the Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC/C/28/Add.18, paragraphs 227–231) that there is a growing number of children who are reportedly involved in prostitution. The Committee reminded the Government that, under the terms of Article 3(b) of the Convention, the use, procuring or offering of a child for prostitution, for the production of pornography or for pornographic performances, constitutes one of the worst forms of child labour and that, in accordance with Article 1 of the Convention, each Member which ratifies the Convention must take immediate and effective measures to secure the prohibition and elimination of the worst forms of child labour. The Committee therefore requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken or envisaged to prohibit the use, procuring or offering of children under 18 years of age for prostitution, for the production of pornography or for pornographic performances, and sanctions envisaged.

Clause (c). Use, procuring or offering of a child for illicit activities. The Committee noted the Government’s information that no specific measures have been taken on this issue. The Committee recalled that Article 3(c) of the Convention provides that the use, procuring or offering of a child for illicit activities, in particular for the production and trafficking of drugs, constitutes one of the worst forms of child labour. Therefore, it requests the Government to indicate whether the use of a child for illicit activities is prohibited and, if so, to indicate the applicable legislation and penalties.

Clause (d). Hazardous work. The Committee noted that section 3(1) of the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act provides that no child (under 14 years of age) shall be employed in any industrial undertaking. The employment of a child on any ship is also prohibited (section 4(1)). As for young people between 14 and 18, section 3(2) only prohibits night-time employment in industry. The Committee considered that the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act does not contain a general prohibition on the employment of children below 18 years in hazardous work. The Committee further noted that, according to the Government’s report to the Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC/C/28/Add.18, paragraph 41), in the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act there is no specific provision for a higher age limit for employment which, by its nature and the circumstances in which it is carried out, is dangerous to the life, health or morals of the persons employed therein. Therefore, the age limit for hazardous employment remains 14 years. The Committee reminded the Government that by virtue of Article 3, paragraph (d), of the Convention, work which, by its nature or circumstances in which it is carried out, is likely to harm the health, safety and morals of children, is considered to be one of the worst forms of child labour and consequently forbidden for children under 18 years of age. It requests the Government to indicate the measures taken or envisaged to ensure that hazardous work is not performed by children under 18 years of age.

Article 4, paragraph 1. Determination of hazardous work. The Committee noted the Government’s statement that the current legislation defines work that is hazardous. Nevertheless, it notes that the Employment of Women, Young Person and Children Act only refers to the prohibition for persons under 18 years of age to perform night work in any industrial undertaking. In defining the term “industrial undertaking”, this Act makes reference to the definition contained in the Minimum Age (Industry) Convention (Revised), 1937 (No. 59), annexed in Part I of the Schedule. The Committee noted that, according to section 6 of the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act, the Governor-General may make regulations in respect of the health, welfare and safety of women, young persons and children in any industrial undertaking. However, the Committee observed that no information is available on such regulations. The Committee reminded the Government that, by virtue of Article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention, the types of hazardous work referred to under Article 3(d) shall be determined by national laws or regulations or by the competent authority, after consultation with the organizations of employers and workers concerned, taking into consideration relevant international standards, in particular Paragraph 3 of the Worst Forms of Child Labour Recommendation, 1999 (No. 190). This Paragraph states that in determining the types of such hazardous work, consideration should be given, inter alia, to: (a) work which exposes children to physical, psychological or sexual abuse; (b) work underground, under water, at dangerous heights or in confined spaces; (c) work with dangerous machinery, equipment and tools, or which involves the manual handling or transport of heavy loads; (d) work in an unhealthy environment which may, for example, expose children to hazardous substances, agents or processes, or to temperatures, noise levels, or vibrations damaging to the health; (e) work under particularly difficult conditions such as work for long hours or during the night or work where the child is unreasonably confined to the premises of the employer. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken or envisaged to determine the types of work to be considered as hazardous and which are to be prohibited for children under 18 years of age. In determining the types of work to be considered as hazardous, the Committee trusts that due consideration will be given to Paragraph 3 of Recommendation No. 190 in this regard. It also asks the Government to provide information on tripartite consultations held on this matter.

Article 5. Monitoring mechanisms. The Committee noted that, by virtue of the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act, the Labour Commissioner and police officers have procedural and inspection powers related to the employment of children or young persons in contravention of the Act. It also noted that, by virtue of section 6 of the same Act, the Governor-General may make regulations in respect of the inspection and supervision of the employment in industrial undertakings of young persons and children. The Committee asks the Government to provide information on the inspections carried out by the Labour Commissioner and police officers, and to provide extracts of the inspection reports specifying the extent and nature of violations detected involving children and young persons involved in the worst forms of child labour. It also asks the Government to indicate the consultations held with the employers’ and workers’ organizations in accordance with the provisions of this Article.

Article 6. Programmes of action to eliminate as a priority the worst forms of child labour. The Committee noted the Government’s information that no specific measures have been taken to prohibit or eliminate the worst forms of child labour, as the general feeling is that child labour is non-existent in the country. The Committee reminded the Government that even where the worst forms of child labour appear to be non-existent, the Convention requires ratifying member States to take measures to determine whether such forms of child labour exist and to ensure that they will not arise in the future. The Committee noted that in its concluding observations (CRC/C/15/Add.184, paragraph 45), the Committee on the Rights of the Child recommended to the Government to undertake a survey to assess the scope and nature of child labour in all sectors and take action to implement all legislation and policies relevant to addressing child labour and protecting the rights of children in the context of their economic exploitation. The Committee accordingly requests the Government to indicate which steps it envisages taking, in consultation with workers’ and employers’ organizations and taking into account the views of other concerned groups, to ensure that the worst forms of child labour do not exist or arise in the future in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Article 7, paragraph 1. Penalties. The Committee noted that section 5 of the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act imposes penalties of fines on anyone who employs a child or young person in any industrial undertaking in violation of Part I (Employment on Industrial Undertakings and on Ships). The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the steps taken to ensure that measures are adopted to secure the enforcement of the provisions giving effect to the Convention, including the provision and application of penal sanctions in accordance with Article 7, paragraph 1, of the Convention.

Article 7, paragraph 2. Effective and time-bound measures. Clause (a). Prevent the engagement of children in the worst forms of child labour. The Committee noted the information contained in the Government’s report that the Government’s education policy includes free basic education for all children. It also noted that, according to the Government’s report to the Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC/C/28/Add.18, paragraph 313, and CRC/C/15/Add.184, paragraph 42), education at government primary schools is free of cost. The Education Act provides for compulsory education, however it has not yet been instituted. The Government still intends to introduce compulsory education in the future. It is reported that most children complete primary school. However, there is a large gap between the percentage of children who leave primary school and those who enter secondary school. Noting the importance that education plays in preventing the worst forms of child labour, the Committee asks the Government to provide further information on the Government’s education policy and on any developments with regard to the introduction of compulsory education.

Clause (d). Identifying and reaching out to children at special risk. Child victims of sexual exploitation and street boys. The Committee noted that, according to the Government’s report to the Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC/C/28/Add.18, paragraph 384), the use of children in prostitution has emerged in relation to crimes of sexual abuse against children. There are cases where children are utilized to bring economic benefits to the home, which constitutes prostitution in effect. In addition, street children, especially boys, have been found to be involved in unlawful sexual practices with men for reward. Therefore, there needs to be more attention paid to the issue of providing alternative care for children who are involved in these situations, since often there is no place for them to go. This would also be linked to the current public awareness campaign on the dangers of sexually transmitted diseases and HIV. The Committee also noted that in its concluding observations (CRC/C/15/Add.184, paragraph 47), the Committee on the Rights of the Child recommended to the Government to undertake studies to examine the phenomena and to develop policies and programmes for the prevention, the recovery and reintegration of these child victims. The Committee further noted the Government’s statement that the situation of children at special risk is dealt with by the Ministry of Social Development. The Committee requests the Government to supply information on effective and time-bound measures taken or envisaged to address the situation of child victims of sexual exploitation and street boys and the impact of such measures on removing such children from the worst forms of child labour and providing for their rehabilitation and social integration.

The Committee requests the Government to supply specific information in relation to its efforts and concrete action taken according to Article 7(2)(e) of the Convention, to prevent the potential occurrence of the worst forms of child labour, with particular regard to the effective and time-bound measures taken to take account of the special situation of girls.

Parts IV and V of the report form. The Committee noted the Government’s statement that there is no available information on this point. It requests the Government to supply copies or extracts from official documents including studies and surveys and to provide information on the nature, extent and trends of the worst forms of child labour, the number of children covered by the measures giving effect to the Convention, the number and nature of infringements reported, investigations, prosecutions, convictions and the penal sanctions applied. To the extent possible, all information provided should be disaggregated by sex.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2006, published 96th ILC session (2007)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

Article 3 of the Convention. Worst forms of child labour. Clause (a). Slavery or practices similar to slavery. Sale and trafficking of children. The Committee notes the absence of information on this issue in the Government’s report. It notes the information contained in the Government’s report to the Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC/C/28/Add.18, paragraph 386), that the Adoption Act contains provisions geared towards controlling the use of adoption as a hidden form of promoting the sale and trafficking in children. The Committee reminds the Government that, by virtue of Article 3(a), the sale and trafficking of children constitute one of the worst forms of child labour and are therefore prohibited for children under 18 years of age. It asks the Government to provide information on the measures taken or envisaged to prohibit the sale and trafficking of children in conformity with Article 3(a) and to supply the text of the Adoption Act and of any other relevant legislation.

Clause (b). Use, procuring or offering of a child for prostitution, for the production of pornography or for pornographic performances. The Committee notes the Government’s information that no specific measures have been taken with regard to this issue. However, it notes the information contained in the Government’s report to the Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC/C/28/Add.18, paragraphs 227-231) that there is a growing number of children who are reportedly involved in prostitution. The Committee reminds the Government that, under the terms of Article 3(b) of the Convention, the use, procuring or offering of a child for prostitution, for the production of pornography or for pornographic performances, constitutes one of the worst forms of child labour and that, in accordance with Article 1 of the Convention, each Member which ratifies the Convention must take immediate and effective measures to secure the prohibition and elimination of the worst forms of child labour. The Committee therefore requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken or envisaged to prohibit the use, procuring or offering of children under 18 years of age for prostitution, for the production of pornography or for pornographic performances, and sanctions envisaged.

Clause (c). Use, procuring or offering of a child for illicit activities. The Committee notes the Government’s information that no specific measures have been taken on this issue. The Committee recalls that Article 3(c) of the Convention provides that the use, procuring or offering of a child for illicit activities, in particular for the production and trafficking of drugs, constitutes one of the worst forms of child labour. Therefore, it requests the Government to indicate whether the use of a child for illicit activities is prohibited and, if so, to indicate the applicable legislation and penalties.

Clause (d). Hazardous work. The Committee notes that section 3(1) of the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act provides that no child (under 14 years of age) shall be employed in any industrial undertaking. The employment of a child on any ship is also prohibited (section 4(1)). As for young people between 14 and 18, section 3(2) only prohibits night-time employment in industry. The Committee considers that the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act does not contain a general prohibition on the employment of children below 18 years in hazardous work. The Committee further notes that, according to the Government’s report to the Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC/C/28/Add.18, paragraph 41), in the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act there is no specific provision for a higher age limit for employment which, by its nature and the circumstances in which it is carried out, is dangerous to the life, health or morals of the persons employed therein. Therefore, the age limit for hazardous employment remains 14 years. The Committee reminds the Government that by virtue of Article 3, paragraph (d), of the Convention, work which, by its nature or circumstances in which it is carried out, is likely to harm the health, safety and morals of children, is considered to be one of the worst forms of child labour and consequently forbidden for children under 18 years of age. It requests the Government to indicate the measures taken or envisaged to ensure that hazardous work is not performed by children under 18 years of age.

Article 4, paragraph 1. Determination of hazardous work. The Committee notes the Government’s statement that the current legislation defines work that is hazardous. Nevertheless, it notes that the Employment of Women, Young Person and Children Act only refers to the prohibition for persons under 18 years of age to perform night work in any industrial undertaking. In defining the term “industrial undertaking”, this Act makes reference to the definition contained in the Minimum Age (Industry) Convention (Revised), 1937 (No. 59), annexed in Part I of the Schedule. The Committee notes that, according to section 6 of the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act, the Governor-General may make regulations in respect of the health, welfare and safety of women, young persons and children in any industrial undertaking. However, the Committee observes that no information is available on such regulations. The Committee reminds the Government that, by virtue of Article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention, the types of hazardous work referred to under Article 3(d) shall be determined by national laws or regulations or by the competent authority, after consultation with the organizations of employers and workers concerned, taking into consideration relevant international standards, in particular Paragraph 3 of the Worst Forms of Child Labour Recommendation, 1999 (No. 190). This Paragraph states that in determining the types of such hazardous work, consideration should be given, inter alia, to: (a) work which exposes children to physical, psychological or sexual abuse; (b) work underground, under water, at dangerous heights or in confined spaces; (c) work with dangerous machinery, equipment and tools, or which involves the manual handling or transport of heavy loads; (d) work in an unhealthy environment which may, for example, expose children to hazardous substances, agents or processes, or to temperatures, noise levels, or vibrations damaging to the health; (e) work under particularly difficult conditions such as work for long hours or during the night or work where the child is unreasonably confined to the premises of the employer. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken or envisaged to determine the types of work to be considered as hazardous and which are to be prohibited for children under 18 years of age. In determining the types of work to be considered as hazardous, the Committee trusts that due consideration will be given to Paragraph 3 of Recommendation No. 190 in this regard. It also asks the Government to provide information on tripartite consultations held on this matter.

Article 5. Monitoring mechanisms. The Committee notes that, by virtue of the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act, the Labour Commissioner and police officers have procedural and inspection powers related to the employment of children or young persons in contravention of the Act. It also notes that, by virtue of section 6 of the same Act, the Governor-General may make regulations in respect of the inspection and supervision of the employment in industrial undertakings of young persons and children. The Committee asks the Government to provide information on the inspections carried out by the Labour Commissioner and police officers, and to provide extracts of the inspection reports specifying the extent and nature of violations detected involving children and young persons involved in the worst forms of child labour. It also asks the Government to indicate the consultations held with the employers’ and workers’ organizations in accordance with the provisions of this Article.

Article 6. Programmes of action to eliminate as a priority the worst forms of child labour. The Committee notes the Government’s information that no specific measures have been taken to prohibit or eliminate the worst forms of child labour, as the general feeling is that child labour is non-existent in the country. The Committee reminds the Government that even where the worst forms of child labour appear to be non-existent, the Convention requires ratifying member States to take measures to determine whether such forms of child labour exist and to ensure that they will not arise in the future. The Committee notes that in its concluding observations (CRC/C/15/Add.184, paragraph 45), the Committee on the Rights of the Child recommended to the Government to undertake a survey to assess the scope and nature of child labour in all sectors and take action to implement all legislation and policies relevant to addressing child labour and protecting the rights of children in the context of their economic exploitation. The Committee accordingly requests the Government to indicate which steps it envisages taking, in consultation with workers’ and employers’ organizations and taking into account the views of other concerned groups, to ensure that the worst forms of child labour do not exist or arise in the future in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Article 7, paragraph 1. Penalties. The Committee notes that section 5 of the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act imposes penalties of fines on anyone who employs a child or young person in any industrial undertaking in violation of Part I (Employment on Industrial Undertakings and on Ships). The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the steps taken to ensure that measures are adopted to secure the enforcement of the provisions giving effect to the Convention, including the provision and application of penal sanctions in accordance with Article 7, paragraph 1, of the Convention.

Article 7, paragraph 2. Effective and time-bound measures. Clause (a). Prevent the engagement of children in the worst forms of child labour. The Committee notes the information contained in the Government’s report that the Government’s education policy includes free basic education for all children. It also notes that, according to the Government’s report to the Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC/C/28/Add.18, paragraph 313, and CRC/C/15/Add.184, paragraph 42), education at government primary schools is free of cost. The Education Act provides for compulsory education, however it has not yet been instituted. The Government still intends to introduce compulsory education in the future. It is reported that most children complete primary school. However, there is a large gap between the percentage of children who leave primary school and those who enter secondary school. Noting the importance that education plays in preventing the worst forms of child labour, the Committee asks the Government to provide further information on the Government’s education policy and on any developments with regard to the introduction of compulsory education.

Clause (d). Identifying and reaching out to children at special risk. Child victims of sexual exploitation and street boys. The Committee notes that, according to the Government’s report to the Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC/C/28/Add.18, paragraph 384), the use of children in prostitution has emerged in relation to crimes of sexual abuse against children. There are cases where children are utilized to bring economic benefits to the home, which constitutes prostitution in effect. In addition, street children, especially boys, have been found to be involved in unlawful sexual practices with men for reward. Therefore, there needs to be more attention paid to the issue of providing alternative care for children who are involved in these situations, since often there is no place for them to go. This would also be linked to the current public awareness campaign on the dangers of sexually transmitted diseases and HIV. The Committee also notes that in its concluding observations (CRC/C/15/Add.184, paragraph 47), the Committee on the Rights of the Child recommended to the Government to undertake studies to examine the phenomena and to develop policies and programmes for the prevention, the recovery and reintegration of these child victims. The Committee further notes the Government’s statement that the situation of children at special risk is dealt with by the Ministry of Social Development.

The Committee requests the Government to supply information on effective and time-bound measures taken or envisaged to address the situation of child victims of sexual exploitation and street boys and the impact of such measures on removing such children from the worst forms of child labour and providing for their rehabilitation and social integration.

The Committee requests the Government to supply specific information in relation to its efforts and concrete action taken according to Article 7(2)(e) of the Convention, to prevent the potential occurrence of the worst forms of child labour, with particular regard to the effective and time-bound measures taken to take account of the special situation of girls.

Parts IV and V of the report form. The Committee notes the Government’s statement that there is no available information on this point. It requests the Government to supply copies or extracts from official documents including studies and surveys and to provide information on the nature, extent and trends of the worst forms of child labour, the number of children covered by the measures giving effect to the Convention, the number and nature of infringements reported, investigations, prosecutions, convictions and the penal sanctions applied. To the extent possible, all information provided should be disaggregated by sex.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2005, published 95th ILC session (2006)

The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which reads as follows:

Article 3 of the Convention. Worst forms of child labour. Clause (a). Slavery or practices similar to slavery. 1. Sale and trafficking of children. The Committee notes the absence of information on this issue in the Government’s report. It notes the information contained in the Government’s report to the Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC/C/28/Add.18, paragraph 386), that the Adoption Act contains provisions geared towards controlling the use of adoption as a hidden form of promoting the sale and trafficking in children. The Committee reminds the Government that, by virtue of Article 3(a), the sale and trafficking of children constitute one of the worst forms of child labour and are therefore prohibited for children under 18 years of age. It asks the Government to provide information on the measures taken or envisaged to prohibit the sale and trafficking of children in conformity with Article 3(a) and to supply the text of the Adoption Act and of any other relevant legislation.

2. Forced labour. The Committee notes that article 4(1) of the Constitution states that no person shall be held in slavery or servitude. It notes that article 4(2) states that no person shall be required to perform forced labour. The Committee notes that there seems to be no specific legislation which makes slavery or forced labour an offence. The Committee asks the Government to provide information on the manner in which the prohibitions of slavery and forced labour provided by article 4 of the Constitution are applied in practice. It also requests the Government to provide information on any specific provisions making all forms of slavery or practices similar to slavery such as forced or compulsory labour an offence.

Clause (b). Use, procuring or offering of a child for prostitution, for the production of pornography or for pornographic performances. The Committee notes the Government’s information that no specific measures have been taken with regard to this issue. However, it notes the information contained in the Government’s report to the Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC/C/28/Add.18, paragraphs 227-231) that there is a growing number of children who are reportedly involved in prostitution. The Committee reminds the Government that, under the terms of Article 3(b) of the Convention, the use, procuring or offering of a child for prostitution, for the production of pornography or for pornographic performances, constitutes one of the worst forms of child labour and that, in accordance with Article 1 of the Convention, each Member which ratifies the Convention must take immediate and effective measures to secure the prohibition and elimination of the worst forms of child labour. The Committee therefore requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken or envisaged to prohibit the use, procuring or offering of children under 18 years of age for prostitution, for the production of pornography or for pornographic performances, and sanctions envisaged.

Clause (c). Use, procuring or offering of a child for illicit activities. The Committee notes the Government’s information that no specific measures have been taken on this issue. The Committee recalls that Article 3(c) of the Convention provides that the use, procuring or offering of a child for illicit activities, in particular for the production and trafficking of drugs, constitutes one of the worst forms of child labour. Therefore, it requests the Government to indicate whether the use of a child for illicit activities is prohibited and, if so, to indicate the applicable legislation and penalties.

Clause (d). Hazardous work. The Committee notes that section 3(1) of the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act provides that no child (under 14 years of age) shall be employed in any industrial undertaking. The employment of a child on any ship is also prohibited (section 4(1)). As for young people between 14 and 18, section 3(2) only prohibits night-time employment in industry. The Committee considers that the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act does not contain a general prohibition on the employment of children below 18 years in hazardous work. The Committee further notes that, according to the Government’s report to the Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC/C/28/Add.18, paragraph 41), in the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act there is no specific provision for a higher age limit for employment which, by its nature and the circumstances in which it is carried out, is dangerous to the life, health or morals of the persons employed therein. Therefore, the age limit for hazardous employment remains 14 years. The Committee reminds the Government that by virtue of Article 3, paragraph (d), of the Convention, work which, by its nature or circumstances in which it is carried out, is likely to harm the health, safety and morals of children, is considered to be one of the worst forms of child labour and consequently forbidden for children under 18 years of age. It requests the Government to indicate the measures taken or envisaged to ensure that hazardous work is not performed by children under 18 years of age.

Article 4, paragraph 1. Determination of hazardous work. The Committee notes the Government’s statement that the current legislation defines work that is hazardous. Nevertheless, it notes that the Employment of Women, Young Person and Children Act only refers to the prohibition for persons under 18 years of age to perform night work in any industrial undertaking. In defining the term "industrial undertaking", this Act makes reference to the definition contained in the Minimum Age (Industry) Convention (Revised), 1937 (No. 59), annexed in Part I of the Schedule. The Committee notes that, according to section 6 of the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act, the Governor-General may make regulations in respect of the health, welfare and safety of women, young persons and children in any industrial undertaking. However, the Committee observes that no information is available on such regulations. The Committee reminds the Government that, by virtue of Article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention, the types of hazardous work referred to under Article 3(d) shall be determined by national laws or regulations or by the competent authority, after consultation with the organizations of employers and workers concerned, taking into consideration relevant international standards, in particular Paragraph 3 of the Worst Forms of Child Labour Recommendation, 1999 (No. 190). This Paragraph states that in determining the types of such hazardous work, consideration should be given, inter alia, to: (a) work which exposes children to physical, psychological or sexual abuse; (b) work underground, under water, at dangerous heights or in confined spaces; (c) work with dangerous machinery, equipment and tools, or which involves the manual handling or transport of heavy loads; (d) work in an unhealthy environment which may, for example, expose children to hazardous substances, agents or processes, or to temperatures, noise levels, or vibrations damaging to the health; (e) work under particularly difficult conditions such as work for long hours or during the night or work where the child is unreasonably confined to the premises of the employer. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken or envisaged to determine the types of work to be considered as hazardous and which are to be prohibited for children under 18 years of age. In determining the types of work to be considered as hazardous, the Committee trusts that due consideration will be given to Paragraph 3 of Recommendation No. 190 in this regard. It also asks the Government to provide information on tripartite consultations held on this matter.

Article 4, paragraph 2. Measures taken to identify where the types of work so determined exist. The Committee notes the Government’s information that no action has been taken to identify where the specific types of hazardous work exist. It reminds the Government that, according to Article 4, paragraph 2, of the Convention, the competent authority, after consultation with the organizations of employers and workers concerned, shall identify where the types of hazardous work exist. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken or envisaged to identify where hazardous work exists, in consultation with the organizations of employers and workers concerned.

Article 5. Monitoring mechanisms. The Committee notes that, by virtue of the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act, the Labour Commissioner and police officers have procedural and inspection powers related to the employment of children or young persons in contravention of the Act. It also notes that, by virtue of section 6 of the same Act, the Governor-General may make regulations in respect of the inspection and supervision of the employment in industrial undertakings of young persons and children. The Committee asks the Government to provide information on the inspections carried out by the Labour Commissioner and police officers, and to provide extracts of the inspection reports specifying the extent and nature of violations detected involving children and young persons involved in the worst forms of child labour. It also asks the Government to indicate the consultations held with the employers’ and workers’ organizations in accordance with the provisions of this Article.

Article 6. Programmes of action to eliminate as a priority the worst forms of child labour. The Committee notes the Government’s information that no specific measures have been taken to prohibit or eliminate the worst forms of child labour, as the general feeling is that child labour is non-existent in the country. The Committee reminds the Government that even where the worst forms of child labour appear to be non-existent, the Convention requires ratifying member States to take measures to determine whether such forms of child labour exist and to ensure that they will not arise in the future. The Committee notes that in its concluding observations (CRC/C/15/Add.184, paragraph 45), the Committee on the Rights of the Child recommended to the Government to undertake a survey to assess the scope and nature of child labour in all sectors and take action to implement all legislation and policies relevant to addressing child labour and protecting the rights of children in the context of their economic exploitation. The Committee accordingly requests the Government to indicate which steps it envisages taking, in consultation with workers’ and employers’ organizations and taking into account the views of other concerned groups, to ensure that the worst forms of child labour do not exist or arise in the future in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Article 7, paragraph 1. Penalties. The Committee notes that section 5 of the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act imposes penalties of fines on anyone who employs a child or young person in any industrial undertaking in violation of Part I (Employment on Industrial Undertakings and on Ships). The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the steps taken to ensure that measures are adopted to secure the enforcement of the provisions giving effect to the Convention, including the provision and application of penal sanctions or, as appropriate, other sanctions, in accordance with Article 7, paragraph 1, of the Convention.

Article 7, paragraph 2. Effective and time-bound measures. Clause (a). Prevent the engagement of children in the worst forms of child labour. The Committee notes the information contained in the Government’s report that the Government’s education policy includes free basic education for all children. It also notes that, according to the Government’s report to the Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC/C/28/Add.18, paragraph 313, and CRC/C/15/Add.184, paragraph 42), education at government primary schools is free of cost. The Education Act provides for compulsory education, however it has not yet been instituted. The Government still intends to introduce compulsory education in the future. It is reported that most children complete primary school. However, there is a large gap between the percentage of children who leave primary school and those who enter secondary school. Noting the importance that education plays in preventing the worst forms of child labour, the Committee asks the Government to provide further information on the Government’s education policy and on any developments with regard to the introduction of compulsory education.

Clause (d). Identifying and reaching out to children at special risk. Child victims of sexual exploitation and street boys. The Committee notes that, according to the Government’s report to the Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC/C/28/Add.18, paragraph 384), the use of children in prostitution has emerged in relation to crimes of sexual abuse against children. There are cases where children are utilized to bring economic benefits to the home, which constitutes prostitution in effect. In addition, street children, especially boys, have been found to be involved in unlawful sexual practices with men for reward. Therefore, there needs to be more attention paid to the issue of providing alternative care for children who are involved in these situations, since often there is no place for them to go. This would also be linked to the current public awareness campaign on the dangers of sexually transmitted diseases and HIV. The Committee also notes that in its concluding observations (CRC/C/15/Add.184, paragraph 47), the Committee on the Rights of the Child recommended to the Government to undertake studies to examine the phenomena and to develop policies and programmes for the prevention, the recovery and reintegration of these child victims. The Committee further notes the Government’s statement that the situation of children at special risk is dealt with by the Ministry of Social Development.

The Committee requests the Government to supply information on effective and time-bound measures taken or envisaged to address the situation of child victims of sexual exploitation and street boys and the impact of such measures on removing such children from the worst forms of child labour and providing for their rehabilitation and social integration.

The Committee requests the Government to supply specific information in relation to its efforts and concrete action taken according to Article 7(2)(e) of the Convention, to prevent the potential occurrence of the worst forms of child labour, with particular regard to the effective and time-bound measures taken to take account of the special situation of girls.

Paragraph 8. Enhanced international cooperation and/or assistance. The Committee notes the absence of information in the Government’s report on this point. It asks the Government to provide information on any steps taken to assist other member States in giving effect to provisions of the Convention through enhanced international cooperation and/or assistance, including support for social and economic development, poverty eradication programmes and universal education, in conformity with these provisions of the Convention.

Parts IV and V of the report form. The Committee notes the Government’s statement that there is no available information on this point. It requests the Government to supply copies or extracts from official documents including studies and surveys and to provide information on the nature, extent and trends of the worst forms of child labour, the number of children covered by the measures giving effect to the Convention, the number and nature of infringements reported, investigations, prosecutions, convictions and the penal sanctions applied. To the extent possible, all information provided should be disaggregated by sex.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2004, published 93rd ILC session (2005)

The Committee notes the Government’s first report and requests it to provide further information on the following points.

Article 3 of the Convention. Worst forms of child labour. Clause (a). Slavery or practices similar to slavery. 1. Sale and trafficking of children. The Committee notes the absence of information on this issue in the Government’s report. It notes the information contained in the Government’s report to the Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC/C/28/Add.18, paragraph 386), that the Adoption Act contains provisions geared towards controlling the use of adoption as a hidden form of promoting the sale and trafficking in children. The Committee reminds the Government that, by virtue of Article 3(a), the sale and trafficking of children constitute one of the worst forms of child labour and are therefore prohibited for children under 18 years of age. It asks the Government to provide information on the measures taken or envisaged to prohibit the sale and trafficking of children in conformity with Article 3(a) and to supply the text of the Adoption Act and of any other relevant legislation.

2. Forced labour. The Committee notes that article 4(1) of the Constitution states that no person shall be held in slavery or servitude. It notes that article 4(2) states that no person shall be required to perform forced labour. The Committee notes that there seems to be no specific legislation which makes slavery or forced labour an offence. The Committee asks the Government to provide information on the manner in which the prohibitions of slavery and forced labour provided by article 4 of the Constitution are applied in practice. It also requests the Government to provide information on any specific provisions making all forms of slavery or practices similar to slavery such as forced or compulsory labour an offence.

Clause (b). Use, procuring or offering of a child for prostitution, for the production of pornography or for pornographic performances. The Committee notes the Government’s information that no specific measures have been taken with regard to this issue. However, it notes the information contained in the Government’s report to the Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC/C/28/Add.18, paragraphs 227-231) that there is a growing number of children who are reportedly involved in prostitution. The Committee reminds the Government that, under the terms of Article 3(b) of the Convention, the use, procuring or offering of a child for prostitution, for the production of pornography or for pornographic performances, constitutes one of the worst forms of child labour and that, in accordance with Article 1 of the Convention, each Member which ratifies the Convention must take immediate and effective measures to secure the prohibition and elimination of the worst forms of child labour. The Committee therefore requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken or envisaged to prohibit the use, procuring or offering of children under 18 years of age for prostitution, for the production of pornography or for pornographic performances, and sanctions envisaged.

Clause (c). Use, procuring or offering of a child for illicit activities. The Committee notes the Government’s information that no specific measures have been taken on this issue. The Committee recalls that Article 3(c) of the Convention provides that the use, procuring or offering of a child for illicit activities, in particular for the production and trafficking of drugs, constitutes one of the worst forms of child labour. Therefore, it requests the Government to indicate whether the use of a child for illicit activities is prohibited and, if so, to indicate the applicable legislation and penalties.

Clause (d). Hazardous work. The Committee notes that section 3(1) of the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act provides that no child (under 14 years of age) shall be employed in any industrial undertaking. The employment of a child on any ship is also prohibited (section 4(1)). As for young people between 14 and 18, section 3(2) only prohibits night-time employment in industry. The Committee considers that the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act does not contain a general prohibition on the employment of children below 18 years in hazardous work. The Committee further notes that, according to the Government’s report to the Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC/C/28/Add.18, paragraph 41), in the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act there is no specific provision for a higher age limit for employment which, by its nature and the circumstances in which it is carried out, is dangerous to the life, health or morals of the persons employed therein. Therefore, the age limit for hazardous employment remains 14 years. The Committee reminds the Government that by virtue of Article 3, paragraph (d), of the Convention, work which, by its nature or circumstances in which it is carried out, is likely to harm the health, safety and morals of children, is considered to be one of the worst forms of child labour and consequently forbidden for children under 18 years of age. It requests the Government to indicate the measures taken or envisaged to ensure that hazardous work is not performed by children under 18 years of age.

Article 4, paragraph 1. Determination of hazardous work. The Committee notes the Government’s statement that the current legislation defines work that is hazardous. Nevertheless, it notes that the Employment of Women, Young Person and Children Act only refers to the prohibition for persons under 18 years of age to perform night work in any industrial undertaking. In defining the term "industrial undertaking", this Act makes reference to the definition contained in the Minimum Age (Industry) Convention (Revised), 1937 (No. 59), annexed in Part I of the Schedule. The Committee notes that, according to section 6 of the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act, the Governor-General may make regulations in respect of the health, welfare and safety of women, young persons and children in any industrial undertaking. However, the Committee observes that no information is available on such regulations. The Committee reminds the Government that, by virtue of Article 4, paragraph 1, of the Convention, the types of hazardous work referred to under Article 3(d) shall be determined by national laws or regulations or by the competent authority, after consultation with the organizations of employers and workers concerned, taking into consideration relevant international standards, in particularParagraph 3 of the Worst Forms of Child Labour Recommendation, 1999 (No. 190). This Paragraph states that in determining the types of such hazardous work, consideration should be given, inter alia, to: (a) work which exposes children to physical, psychological or sexual abuse; (b) work underground, under water, at dangerous heights or in confined spaces; (c) work with dangerous machinery, equipment and tools, or which involves the manual handling or transport of heavy loads; (d) work in an unhealthy environment which may, for example, expose children to hazardous substances, agents or processes, or to temperatures, noise levels, or vibrations damaging to the health; (e) work under particularly difficult conditions such as work for long hours or during the night or work where the child is unreasonably confined to the premises of the employer. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken or envisaged to determine the types of work to be considered as hazardous and which are to be prohibited for children under 18 years of age. In determining the types of work to be considered as hazardous, the Committee trusts that due consideration will be given to Paragraph 3 of Recommendation No. 190 in this regard. It also asks the Government to provide information on tripartite consultations held on this matter.

Article 4, paragraph 2. Measures taken to identify where the types of work so determined exist. The Committee notes the Government’s information that no action has been taken to identify where the specific types of hazardous work exist. It reminds the Government that, according to Article 4, paragraph 2, of the Convention, the competent authority, after consultation with the organizations of employers and workers concerned, shall identify where the types of hazardous work exist. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken or envisaged to identify where hazardous work exists, in consultation with the organizations of employers and workers concerned.

Article 5. Monitoring mechanisms. The Committee notes that, by virtue of the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act, the Labour Commissioner and police officers have procedural and inspection powers related to the employment of children or young persons in contravention of the Act. It also notes that, by virtue of section 6 of the same Act, the Governor-General may make regulations in respect of the inspection and supervision of the employment in industrial undertakings of young persons and children. The Committee asks the Government to provide information on the inspections carried out by the Labour Commissioner and police officers, and to provide extracts of the inspection reports specifying the extent and nature of violations detected involving children and young persons involved in the worst forms of child labour. It also asks the Government to indicate the consultations held with the employers’ and workers’ organizations in accordance with the provisions of this Article.

Article 6. Programmes of action to eliminate as a priority the worst forms of child labour. The Committee notes the Government’s information that no specific measures have been taken to prohibit or eliminate the worst forms of child labour, as the general feeling is that child labour is non-existent in the country. The Committee reminds the Government that even where the worst forms of child labour appear to be non-existent, the Convention requires ratifying member States to take measures to determine whether such forms of child labour exist and to ensure that they will not arise in the future. The Committee notes that in its concluding observations (CRC/C/15/Add.184, paragraph 45), the Committee on the Rights of the Child recommended to the Government to undertake a survey to assess the scope and nature of child labour in all sectors and take action to implement all legislation and policies relevant to addressing child labour and protecting the rights of children in the context of their economic exploitation. The Committee accordingly requests the Government to indicate which steps it envisages taking, in consultation with workers’ and employers’ organizations and taking into account the views of other concerned groups, to ensure that the worst forms of child labour do not exist or arise in the future in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Article 7, paragraph 1. Penalties. The Committee notes that section 5 of the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act imposes penalties of fines on anyone who employs a child or young person in any industrial undertaking in violation of Part I (Employment on Industrial Undertakings and on Ships). The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the steps taken to ensure that measures are adopted to secure the enforcement of the provisions giving effect to the Convention, including the provision and application of penal sanctions or, as appropriate, other sanctions, in accordance with Article 7, paragraph 1, of the Convention.

Article 7, paragraph 2. Effective and time-bound measures. Clause (a). Prevent the engagement of children in the worst forms of child labour. The Committee notes the information contained in the Government’s report that the Government’s education policy includes free basic education for all children. It also notes that, according to the Government’s report to the Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC/C/28/Add.18, paragraph 313, and CRC/C/15/Add.184, paragraph 42), education at government primary schools is free of cost. The Education Act provides for compulsory education, however it has not yet been instituted. The Government still intends to introduce compulsory education in the future. It is reported that most children complete primary school. However, there is a large gap between the percentage of children who leave primary school and those who enter secondary school. Noting the importance that education plays in preventing the worst forms of child labour, the Committee asks the Government to provide further information on the Government’s education policy and on any developments with regard to the introduction of compulsory education.

Clause (d). Identifying and reaching out to children at special risk. Child victims of sexual exploitation and street boys. The Committee notes that, according to the Government’s report to the Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC/C/28/Add.18, paragraph 384), the use of children in prostitution has emerged in relation to crimes of sexual abuse against children. There are cases where children are utilized to bring economic benefits to the home, which constitutes prostitution in effect. In addition, street children, especially boys, have been found to be involved in unlawful sexual practices with men for reward. Therefore, there needs to be more attention paid to the issue of providing alternative care for children who are involved in these situations, since often there is no place for them to go. This would also be linked to the current public awareness campaign on the dangers of sexually transmitted diseases and HIV. The Committee also notes that in its concluding observations (CRC/C/15/Add.184, paragraph 47), the Committee on the Rights of the Child recommended to the Government to undertake studies to examine the phenomena and to develop policies and programmes for the prevention, the recovery and reintegration of these child victims. The Committee further notes the Government’s statement that the situation of children at special risk is dealt with by the Ministry of Social Development.

The Committee requests the Government to supply information on effective and time-bound measures taken or envisaged to address the situation of child victims of sexual exploitation and street boys and the impact of such measures on removing such children from the worst forms of child labour and providing for their rehabilitation and social integration.

The Committee requests the Government to supply specific information in relation to its efforts and concrete action taken according to Article 7(2)(e) of the Convention, to prevent the potential occurrence of the worst forms of child labour, with particular regard to the effective and time-bound measures taken to take account of the special situation of girls.

Paragraph 8. Enhanced international cooperation and/or assistance. The Committee notes the absence of information in the Government’s report on this point. It asks the Government to provide information on any steps taken to assist other member States in giving effect to provisions of the Convention through enhanced international cooperation and/or assistance, including support for social and economic development, poverty eradication programmes and universal education, in conformity with these provisions of the Convention.

Parts IV and V of the report form. The Committee notes the Government’s statement that there is no available information on this point. It requests the Government to supply copies or extracts from official documents including studies and surveys and to provide information on the nature, extent and trends of the worst forms of child labour, the number of children covered by the measures giving effect to the Convention, the number and nature of infringements reported, investigations, prosecutions, convictions and the penal sanctions applied. To the extent possible, all information provided should be disaggregated by sex.