Legislation to support establishment of modern data centres expected by April

With political will already demonstrated, the Irfaan Ali-led government hopes to soon create the enabling environment for the development of information and communication technology services which will see the establishment of local modern data centres.

On Tuesday, the President said that by April this year, the government will table in the National Assembly legislation to support its aspirations in this regard.

Speaking during the opening of a second location for Teleperformance Guyana, Dr. Ali said Attorney General, Anil Nandlall is currently working with other countries that have already implemented the legislation in drafting one that is futuristic for Guyana.

“We are looking at the challenges since countries implemented to ensure Guyana is futuristic and captures the entire business environment of data centres.

“By the end of the first quarter, we are hoping legislation will be in the National Assembly,” Dr. Ali said.

President Ali explained that the efforts to establish the legal system come at a time when Guyana is on a mission to become a leading destination for ICT and related services.

And to achieve the goal, there must be a strong business ecosystem, Dr Ali emphasised.

“By the time we get to 2027, I’m convinced that we will have the most modern legal architecture to support any type of development in the region and around the world. That is because we are building a system that is taking the best available legislation [and] regulation,” the Head of State said.

For the mission to succeed, the government also recognises that it must invest in the country’s human resources.

“We are not building a Guyana 20 years backwards, we are building a Guyana that will be 40 years ahead of its time by the time we get to 2030. That is the Guyana we are building.

“I keep referring to global footprint because we are building a country and sectors that must be able to compete globally. Our markets must not be confined to Guyana and the region.”

He noted that Guyana aims to develop an electronic, data-driven, decision-making system that will improve service delivery, the government’s efficiency, stimulate operation and improve the country’s global footprint in technology.

The President said that the Government aims to develop the country using the best available tools and resources to propel it into global competitiveness.