7 LEGAL AND SECURITY FRAMEWORK The rapid changes in the communications sector have given rise to the need to create a dynamic legal and regulatory framework that is responsive to technological changes and advancement in the sector. In addition, the convergence between telecommunications, broadcasting and information technologies must be reflected in a national legal and regulatory regime. A key goal is to develop the sector within a legal framework that is open and transparent in the application of its rules and regulations and that caters for and promotes healthy competition. The framework must also facilitate affordable universal services and access to basic value added services through the establishment of conditions for an investor friendly communications environment. Security of networks is also a major area of concern for the development of a digital economy. Information systems carry data of great value to government, businesses and individuals, the transmission of which involves security risks. Fraud conducted on such systems undermines consumer confidence in online services. Increased protection of the networks and the information systems is therefore necessary to guard against various attacks and unauthorised access. 7-1 Developing the national ICT legal framework The ICT sector is primarily subject to the Telecommunications Act 2006. The Government considers the following objectives as key to the establishment of a comprehensive legal framework in Sierra Leone over the next 3 years: a. The immediate amendment to the Telecommunications Act 2006. This shall take into consideration the regional harmonisation laws on ICT (ECOWAS Supplementary Acts), sector convergence and also provide interim provisions for the laws being prepared in accordance with the objective numbered 4(four) below. b. The Law Review Commission to review all laws with a view to ensuring that they reflect the existence of ICT considerations where required. c. The Ministry of Labour to determine a suitable labour regulation for ICT employees with a view to ensuring middle to senior management training of nationals, the retention of skilled ICT nationals at all levels and the attraction of skilled nationals from the Diaspora. d. The enactment of laws providing for: o the collection of biometric data (general public and visitors) and comprehensive digitalization of databases at the Police and Immigration Departments; o data protection, privacy; o tele-medicine; ICT Policy of Sierra Leone Page 38 / 63