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| Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs, Chris Sinckler (right), in conversation with Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office, Sen. Darcy Boyce (left) and Director of Digicel, Ralph "Bizzy" Williams at the launch. (A. Miller/BGIS)?? |
Part of Government’s mandate is to ensure that Barbadians have access to the best in telecommunications services.
This was emphasised by Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs, Chris Sinckler, as he addressed the launch of Digicel’s 4G technology at Hilton Barbados last night.
He pointed out that Government had outlined a "very consistent and concise policy on telecommunications" that stretched back to the previous administration and was reinforced by this one. "And, it is to ensure that Barbadians can have the easiest possible access, universally, to all telecommunications technology that could be introduced into Barbados."
Lauding Digicel for its technological innovations over the years and the level of contribution it was making to the Barbados economy, Mr. Sinckler said this served to make Barbados not only telecommunications ready but "a real competitor in the field".
"Digicel continues to be an exemplar in relation to bridging the digital divide and the deficit that existed in Barbados for a number of years as it relates to telecommunications technology and communications among Barbadians.
"And, since the first generation of liberalisation reforms in the telecoms sector that transpired a few years ago, we have seen a tremendous advance in telecommunications technology. And that has come because of competition but also because of the innovations and the changes which have occurred [and] been brought from places far flung right into our living rooms by companies such as Digicel," he noted.
The Finance Minister described the present revolution in cellular technology in Barbados as "nothing short of spectacular". "With the introduction of 4G, the Government of Barbados, is of course, extremely happy that large amounts of data can now be moved with such speed as to help us not just from remote locations but, almost any location to be able to conduct our business and our affairs personally at a level that is less costly; that is more effective; that is clear; and, of course, that will add to our levels of competitiveness," he stated.
Concerning the company’s application for a wireless fixed line service, he disclosed that it was under "active consideration" by government.
4G is technology will allow persons to access the internet over mobile wireless from any location over broadband speed.