THE PROJECT WILL INCREASE ACCESS TO DIGITAL SERVICES AND TECHNOLOGIES IN PARTICIPATING EC COUNTRIES.

Digitally transforming the public sector remains a commitment of the Government of Saint Lucia as finance has been secured for the Caribbean Digital Transformation Project (DIGITAL CARIBBEAN).

This project will build on the digital foundations established by the ongoing Caribbean Regional Communications Infrastructure Program (CARCIP) and was brought to the House of Assembly on Tuesday, July 21.

According to Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Hon. Allen Chastanet, improving on the provision of governmental services to citizens through e-commerce has always been a priority for this administration and COVID-19 has quickened the need to embrace and start the transition online.

“The project is relevant and consistent with the government’s national development vision to embrace digital technologies. COVID-19 has further emphasized the urgent need for the Government of Saint Lucia to modernize the legal, regulatory and institutional framework governing the telecommunications sector to adequately address market failures, promote consumer interests and digital inclusion, as well as keep pace with rapid technological advancements.”

The primary objective of the project is to increase access to digital services, technologies and skills by governments, businesses, and individuals in the participating Eastern Caribbean countries. To achieve these objectives, the project is sub-divided into four (4) components: Creating a digitally enabling environment to foster competition, investment, and innovation while promoting trust and security for online transactions. Building digital government infrastructure, platforms, and services, teaching digital skills, promoting technology adoption, and providing project implementation support.

“This project will not only benefit the Government,” Prime Minister Chastanet noted. “The benefits will be shared among a wide range of stakeholders, including businesses, citizens and visitors. Businesses and individuals will be able to access public services and carry out transactions with the Government more efficiently and conveniently through online platforms; whilst individuals will have greater access to training opportunities and support to help them find new digitally enabled jobs.”

This is a Caribbean initiative will be financed through a regional IDA grant through the OECS Secretariat.  A Regional Project Oversight Committee will be established and will be co-chaired by the OECS Commission and the ECCB.

For more on this motion, please visit the Government of Saint Lucia Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/SaintLuciaGovernment/videos/2740430652859148