8. Together with the governments of other Pacific islands countries and territories, the Government of Solomon Islands has contributed to, and made commitments to, a number of regional and international collaborations in respect of ICT. By identifying and implementing ICT policy measures that will deliver tangible benefits for the people of Solomon Islands the Government will fulfill both national and regional responsibilities. 9. It is fundamental that the National ICT Policy must also support the economic and social goals of the Solomon Islands. With this in mind, the National ICT Policy is designed to be consistent with the Government’s Policy Strategy and Translation and with the strategy for national development. It is clear that many decisions will need to be made by the Government on ICT issues as time goes by. So, too, will many issues arise for decision by businesses, faith-based organizations, schools, families, and communities. The Role of ICT Policy 10. The National ICT Policy is intended to direct future Government activity in relation to the ICT sector, for the further achievement of national goals. Implementation machinery will be established, to translate the policy into action. The National ICT Policy will in some cases require the enactment of legislation. 11. Where new laws are enacted to give effect to policy, there may be a need to appoint a person or body to oversee compliance with those laws and enforce them. The telecommunications sector already has such a regulator, in the Telecommunications Commission. The Government is concerned that any new laws must be complied with or enforced but recognises that expert regulatory staffs are scarce and staffing and operating regulatory agencies is costly. The Government is also concerned that policy, law and regulation should not impose unnecessary costs on businesses. A fundamental concern of the National ICT Policy, therefore, is to minimise the compliance burden on regulated businesses and the administrative overhead that Government must bear. 12. The National ICT Policy will work together with other policies, laws and regulations to support the adoption and use of ICT in Solomon Islands. The Solomon Islands Page | 9 Solomon Islands National ICT Policy

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