Jamaica National Heritage Trust Act to be Amended

During the new legislative year, the Government will seek to amend the Jamaica National Heritage Trust (JNHT) Act to align Jamaica’s valuable cultural heritage with global designation benchmarks and further promote the country’s culture.

The Cultural and Creative Economy Act as well as the Entertainment Industry Act will also be brought to the House for approval.

This was announced by Governor-General, His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen, who delivered the Throne Speech during the ceremonial opening of Parliament on Thursday (February 14) under the theme ‘In Partnership towards the New Prosperous Jamaica’.

“Jamaica scored a major victory with the inscription of reggae music on the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity,” the Governor-General said.

This, he said, demonstrates that reggae “has served to foster a better understanding of musical art as a tool for promoting dialogue among people and appreciating cultural diversity among ethnic groups worldwide”.

Also to be undertaken during the new legislative year is continued review of key pieces of legislation to support elimination of gender-based violence, including the Domestic Violence Act, Offences Against the Person Act, and the Sexual Offences Act. The Prevention of Sexual Harassment Bill is to be tabled.

In the area of Sport, the Government will seek to conclude review of the National Sport Policy along with a study on the contribution of sport to national development and employment.