Dublin Core & the Drupal CLF 2.0 Theme

I've recently made some changes to the CLF 2.0 theme for drupal so that Dublin Core is supported in the theme.  Details of the modificaitons to the theme have been posted to our blog.  The specifications for Dublin Core came from the CLF 1.0 definitions and aren't clearly stated in the CLF 2.0 specifications.  However, after asking for clarification I got the following response:

"CLF 2.0 does not mention the metadata requirements (thought it can be found in the CLF 1.0-2.0 mapping). HOWEVER, Metadata MUST still be applied to GC websites, as per TBITS 39.1. The mandatory DC elements are: Title, Creator, Date (Created, and Modified as appropriate), Language and Subject. As per TBITS 39.2, controlled vocabularies must be used, and the Core Subject Thesaurus is the default source to use with the Subject element. Implementation Guidelines for practical details [is a useful guideline].

To make the answer clear, let me give some historical background. In CLF 1.0, standard 6.3 (Metatags) specified the use of 5 metadata elements to describe GC websites. At the time CLF was written, the then CLF team had in mind the use of GILS as a metadata standard to describe GC websites, but failed to specify any standard and on which page to apply the "metatags". Departments asked TBS what to implement and how, in order to meet the December 2001 deadline. In early 2000, a request was passed on to the newly created IM Division to come up with guidance. An ad hoc working group was established (that became the GOL Metadata Working Group). Options were studied and the WG recommended the adoption of the Dublin Core, and to apply the 5 mandatory tags to specific pages (following the Australian example). TBS adopted the TBITS 39.1 standard to complement (e.g. fix the shortcoming of) CLF 1.0 standard 6.3. At the time of redesigning CLF 2.0, the then CLF team decided not to repeat requirements that were covered by other policy instruments, hence they got rid of the metadata requirement. Metadata MUST still be applied to GC websites as TBITS 39.1 is still in effect. The only place in CLF where this is mentioned is in the CLF 1.0-2.0 mapping. It has been asked many times to link CLF 2.0 to the TBITS 39.1 requirement."

For more information on Dublin Core adoption within CLF 2.0, please contact Information Management Division, Chief Information Officer Branch