Section 16: Objects of Authority

16. Objects of Authority The objects of the Authority shall be to— (a) democratise access to information, taking into account the quality, diversity and plurality in the choice of services available through the use of information and communication technologies; (b) create a level playing field for all operators in the interest of consumers in general; (c) license and regulate the information and communication services; [Issue 9] I12 – 10 Revised Laws of Mauritius (d) ensure that information and communication services, including telecommunication services are reasonably accessible at affordable cost nationwide and are supplied as efficiently and economically as practicable and at performance standards that reasonably meet the social, educational, industrial, commercial and other needs of Mauritius; (e) encourage the optimum use of information and communication technologies in business, industry and the country at large, the introduction of new technology and investment in infrastructure and services; (f) promote the efficiency and international competitiveness of Mauritius in the information and communication sector; (g) further the advancement of technology, research and development relating to information and communication technologies through modern and effective infrastructure, taking into account the convergence of information technology, media, telecommunications and consumer electronics; (h) advise the Minister on all matters relating to information and communication technologies and on matters relating to the Authority generally. (S. 16 came into operation on 1 June 2002.)