Minister of Planning and Development Pennelope Beckles says while “big data” and artificial intelligence will pave the way for increased resourceful productivity and innovation, the government is intent on updating and introducing new data laws that will protect all citizens.
Beckles was speaking at the Hyatt Regency, Port of Spain, on Tuesday at the opening of the annual UN Big Data Forum.
She said there are important elements of the Data Protection Act to iron out as AI (artificial intelligence) and big data make their way across government services.
“(The) Data Protection Act (partially proclaimed in 2011) is a critical part of modernising government services and improving the economy among other things through big data and AI,” Beckles said.
Big data refers to data sets that are too complex to be dealt with by traditional data-processing application software, and are increasingly analysed via powerful AI tools.
“While we understand that data can be instrumental to growth and national development, we are also cognisant that there are negatives when data is mishandled or not effectively managed."
She reminded the audience that in March, the government put forth a successful motion requesting more time to “ensure that the legislation related to data protection put the needs and safety of our citizens first.”
Beckles said since the act was partially proclaimed, there has been a need to ensure the development of modern, up-to-date legislation that caters to developments.
“Data protection is essential for economic development, because effective data protection laws and regulations advance citizens’ trust in digital tools and electronic systems through the integration of rights and protections against the misuse of their personal data.
“When considering this, we must require organisations to use data in fair, transparent and accountable ways. This is fundamental for the government’s drive towards effective data rights and protection for our citizens.”
In its effort to make big data and AI integration the standard for government operations, she said, “We are ensuring that data laws and regulations must be well-designed, adapted to the national context, consider existing resource constraints, have the independence and teeth necessary, and must have mechanisms to be effectively and consistently enforced.”
Beckles said the advancement of a robust, dependable digital economy presents significant opportunities for both developing and developed countries.
“Digital advancements provide platforms to support and intensify new streams of innovative undertakings, and have the potential to assist small and medium-sized enterprises in addressing challenges associated with unemployment, whilst creating trading opportunities, stimulating green development, and increasing the overall standard of living for the citizens of the Caribbean region.”
She said the digital economy in Latin America and the Caribbean has becoming increasingly important, with the region accounting for about 3.4 per cent of global reve
