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SA to clamp down heavily on rock art vandals South Africa is to clamp down heavily on rock art vandals. New legislation that came into effect on 1 April 2000 provides for a jail term of up to five years and a fine of up to 500 000 for anyone caught damaging rock art. Some of the finest rock art in the world is to be found in South Africa where there are over 30 000 sites across the country. The new National Heritage Resources Act No 25 of 1999 replaces the old National Monuments Council Act of 1969. It also does away with the National Monuments Council (NMC) which will be replaced by the South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA). The new development will see provincial authorities playing a far greater role in protecting the country's heritage by taking over the NMC's regional offices. These regional offices will eventually be responsible for the issuing of archaeological and palaeontological excavation permits, although permits for the export of heritage objects and permits for shipwrecks will remain with the national SAHRA office. Kwazulu Natal has led the way with the formation of its regional heritage authority, the Amafa aKwaZulu-Natali, which has already assumed responsibility for issuing permits. The next provinces in line are likely to be the Eastern Cape, Northern Cape, Western Cape and Mpumulanga. The main differences between the old and new acts are that all fossils and artefacts become the property of the State and may not be bought or sold without a permit; all unmarked graves older than 60 years are protected; metal detectors may not be used on archaeological and historical sites without a permit; impact assessments for a range of development projects are mandatory; and the intangible aspects of "living heritage" are recognized as a significant part of heritage resources. Mary Leslie has replaced Janette Deacon as SAHRA's archaeologist and will handle all permit queries. (She can be contacted at 021 462 4502) Janette will remain with the agency for some time to help the transformation. ©Copyright Prime Origins 2001 CONTACT BRETT HILTON-BARBER primeorigins.co.za is an iafrica.com Private Label site