PN MP Claudio Grech said today that government should invest heavily in technological infrastructure, and not leave it up solely to the private sector.
Parliament was discussing the budgetary estimates for the Ministry for Competitiveness and Digital, Maritime and Services Economy.
"Back in the 80s, this country had to build its infrastructure from scratch, rising from a country with barely any phone lines, to one which is technologically advanced. The government must involve itself in infrastructure as the country would lose out if our infrastructure is not able to compete with others," he explained.
He said that if Malta wants to become a digital hub, then more diverse telecommunication routes are needed. He mentioned the budgetary proposal regarding an underwater fibre-optic cable link to Marseille.
Mr Grech also said that innovation leads to quality jobs, which in turn leads to sustainable economic growth. He was referring to the need to attract foreign start-up companies. "If government helps these start-ups, we will create a substantial critical mass of start-ups that can generate economic benefits for the country".
PN MP Kristy Debono praised government's announcement of the strategy for cyber security. She said that Malta is at risk in terms of cyber security when compared with other EU countries. "I hope that we can reach the targets assigned in this strategy".
She also spoke of the need to introduce more schemes to encourage businesses to develop an online presence. She stressed that SMEs are the main drivers of the Maltese economy, adding that an online presence will help them become more efficient.
She expressed her disappointment that no new concrete measures were present in the budget for the digital economy.
from The Malta Independent http://ift.tt/2e9MpRT
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