At the end of 2003, there were 30 per cent of internet users enjoying broadband. This means that 5.4% of the Maltese population uses broadband, in contrast with the EU average of 6.02%. Minister Gatt said broadband could be considered as the second phase of the digital revolution and a natural step for every country that wants to have a society and an economy of information. Addressing journalists on Friday, Minister Gatt explained how this strategy should help Malta encourage more people use broadband. He added that the strategy sheds light on the infrastructure needed to deliver broadband to all the Maltese population. The strategy also highlights the need for a legislative framework which encourages a competitive environment, through which customers could chose different means how to access broadband internet.
Minister Gatt added that there should be close collaboration between the government and the private sector. He said broadband is essential for the government to be able to expand its online services such as eGovernment, eLearning and eHealth. These services cannot be offered through the conventional Internet speed.
Broadband is also essential to businesses willing to exploit internet. Minister Gatt said broadband would lead to more ‘family-friendly’ jobs, where the concept of teleworking could be put in practice.
The document can be downloaded from www.miti.gov.mt.
Quelle: Maltamedia Daily New, 23.04.2004
