Premier and Minister of Finance, Hon. Andrew Fahie, who has taken control of the telecommunications portfolio, has announced plans to transfer the Department of Information Technology from the Ministry of Finance to the Premier's Office.

"To illustrate your Government’s commitment to this task of strengthening our Information and Communications Technology (ICT) infrastructure and services, the Department of Information Technology (DoIT) will be transferred from the Ministry of Finance to the Premier’s Office - the Ministry responsible for information, communications, and technology," the Premier stated duribg his budget address on Thursday, November 12.

He pointed out that the transfer will ensure that technology and communications are well aligned along with the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission, the post of Director of Communications, Department of Information and Public Relations.

According to the Premier, the move is also important as the Government is to set up an ad hoc Information Commission to improve the Communications and technological structure.

The Premier shared that the Negotiations with telecommunications service providers are expected to begin in 2021, and Government will be insisting that service providers commit to ensuring quality service and value for money is provided to residents.

"There will be no compromise on this because reliable telecommunications, particularly internet, is essential for competitiveness in today’s global business environment," the Premier stated.