The regional authority is setting in motion a series of measures to exploit the ERMES programme for fibre optic network infrastructure across the region, designed to deliver innovation and jobs to public and business through broadband access.
The aim, for citizens, is to bridge the digital divide that persists throughout the region and the country, while increasing the region's competitiveness for companies.
To accelerate and reinforce the programme, the Region has recognised an opportunity to promote synergy between the potential of a Public Regional Network and the individual networks of international, domestic and local telecommunications operators in the region.
Putting this strategy into action, Insiel, the regional ICT development agency, and Telecom Italia have today signed a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at bridging the digital gap in Friuli Venezia Giulia through wider broadband access. The agreement foresees the setting up of a Joint Insiel / Telecom Italia Technical Committee to examine, assess and propose initiatives designed to further the goals of the Friuli Venezia Giulia 3-year ICT, eGovernment and Telecommunications Infrastructure Development Programme 2012-2014, and the ERMES Programme for broadband delivery.
In compliance with antitrust regulations, the Memorandum of Understanding is non-exclusive and leaves both parties free to stipulate similar agreements with other entities and operators.
The initiatives foreseen will give a growing number of citizens, firms and local institutions access to new broadband technologies within the very near future.
“Today's agreement confirms the Region's concrete commitment to narrowing the digital divide, ” remarked Riccardo Riccardi, Regional Commissioner for Infrastructure, present at the signing. "It lays the basis for the introduction and diffusion of network infrastructure and connectivity to the whole community of Friuli Venezia Giulia, both citizens and firms. This is a vital factor for the competitiveness and socio-economic development of the region.”
“This Memorandum paves the way for a bridging of the digital divide, rapidly and across the whole of Friuli, ” commented Oscar Cicchetti, Director of Strategy, Telecom Italia. “‘Internet for everyone’ is the primary goal of the European Digital Agenda and its achievement is especially vital in regions with a widely dispersed population and business fabric.”
“Insiel is determined to devote maximum commitment to the task it has been set by the Region,” added Sergio Brischi, Insiel Director of Strategic Planning. “The firm is fully aware of the vital role it must play and its wider mission as driver of technological change in Friuli Venezia Giulia. Broadband will also be an important factor in the growth of the company.”
