A/HRC/15/12 individual. With the passage of time, growing tolerance on the part of the people would help in addressing this issue. It was a policy issue on which the Cabinet would have to deliberate. It was noted that there was no discrimination in the provision of health and other services in that regard. 27. Regarding questions on human trafficking, it was explained that the Government sought to raise awareness about the issue. The Palermo Protocol on Trafficking had been ratified, and law enforcement officials were undergoing training in the detection and apprehension of human trafficking. In addition, there was an ongoing discussion about the criminalization of the specific offence of human trafficking, although related offences had already been criminalized. In a recent statement at a meeting of the Organization of American States, the Prime Minister pointed to the existence of resource constraints, but indicated that technical assistance would be sought to correct the problem. 28. As to questions on the ratification of the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, it was clarified that it was a possibility, as the Government had undertaken a review of all international treaties with the intention of updating Grenada’s positions on a number of issues. 29. As regards the question relating to the issuance of a standing invitation, it was stated that the Government would consider extending a standing invitation to all the special procedures of the Human Rights Council. 30. As to whether a human rights institution in accordance to the Paris Principles would be established, it was pointed out that Grenada had an independent human rights institution and that attempts were being made to strengthen its capacity with a view to international recognition. The group that had been brought together to help draft the report would be engaged on this issue. 31. Regarding the issue of what progress had been made towards meeting treaty reporting obligations, it was explained that Grenada faced severe human and technical constraints that had resulted in a backlog in its reporting obligations. However, the report to the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women had recently been submitted, and others should follow. 32. In response to questions about progress made in amending legislation to provide boys and girls with equal protection against sexual abuse and exploitation, it was stated that the law provided protection, but the harmonization of legislation in that regard was being contemplated. All reported abuses were investigated, and the Child Welfare Authority worked together with the police. 33. As for what progress had been made in providing juvenile courts and ensuring the separation of children from adults in detention, it was clarified that at present, children were separated from adults in pre-trial detention. With respect to post-trial detention, the Government was working to complete a facility for holding juvenile offenders. The facility had been affected by Hurricane Ivan, so there had been some delays in its functioning. Additionally, the Government was working towards juvenile courts, but it was constrained by limited resources. 34. Regarding violence against women, it was noted that the Domestic Violence Act 2001 and the Domestic Violence Summary Procedure Rules were in place and that their strict enforcement should address the issue. It was also recalled that a shelter for battered women had been established and that all reports of abuse were investigated. 35. Concerning the question about the monitoring of places of detention and whether a complaint mechanism existed for victims of ill treatment, it was explained that regular visits were carried out by non-governmental organizations, in particular through 6

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