Observation (CEACR) - adopted 1991, published 78th ILC session (1991)

In previous comments the Committee has noted that, under sections 13 to 18 of the Chief's Authority Act (Cap. 128), able-bodied male persons between 18 and 45 years of age may be required to perform any work or service in connection with the conservation of natural resources for up to 60 days in any year. It has expressed the hope that these sections would be either repealed or amended so as to meet the criteria for "minor communal services" which are exempted from the scope of the Convention under its Article 2, paragraph 2(e).

The Committee notes with interest the Government's indication in its report that it intends to repeal or to amend sections 13 and 17 of the Act, so as to restrict their scope and bring them within the exception provided for in Article 2, paragraph 2(e), of the Convention, as it is recognised that in law the aforementioned sections of the Act are not in full conformity with the Convention.

The Committee hopes that the Government will soon be able to report on the adoption of the necessary amendments.