The Ministry of Economic Planning, Sustainable Development, Industry, Labour and Information in collaboration with the National Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (NTRC) through the World Bank funded Caribbean Regional Communication Infrastructure Program (CARCIP) has developed a draft National Broadband Plan for St. Vincent and the Grenadines that covers the years 2017-2021.

This plan was developed to address the critical gaps in broadband Internet as a means to stimulate private sector investment, innovation, affordable pricing, increase speeds and to improve quality of service for our citizens.

Five consultations have been planned throughout St. Vincent and the Grenadines to discuss the Government’s intent to ensure nationwide access to reliable and affordable high speed broadband networks (more details at simplyswitch.com/broadband/).

The aim of these consultations is to gather feedback from the general public before the draft plan is finalized. The key speaker at the events is Mr. Richardson Franklin, consultant for the Caribbean Regional Communication Infrastructure Program (CARCIP).

Two consultations have already been held in Layou and Georgetown and upcoming consultations will be held at:
• Canouan Primary School on Tuesday February 7, 2017 from 6:00pm-8:00pm
• Bequia Community High School on Thursday February 9, 2017 from 6:00pm-8:00pm
• Methodist Church Hall in Kingstown on February 16, 2017 from 9:30am-12:30pm