Five of the island's post offices have been selected to introduce a range of commercial and e-transaction services under a new pilot initiative being implemented by the Energy, Mining and Telecommunications Ministry.

Speaking recently at the launch of the public education programme for the Electronic Transactions Act at the Knutsford Court Hotel, Minister of Energy, Mining and Telecommunications, Clive Mullings disclosed that the five selected are Santa Cruz, Christiana, May Pen, Darliston and Port Antonio.

Mr. Mullings noted that "A bright future lay ahead for the Post and Telecommunications Department", which, he noted, is taking advantage of the technology wave. "The Post and Telecommunications Department has introduced a range of new commercial and agency services, aimed at leveraging customers' demand for e-transactions services," he informed.

Broadband access

He said that funds from the Universal Access Fund will be used by the post offices to establish community access points that will provide broadband access to residents in marginalised and underserved communities.

In addition, the post offices will soon be offering electronic business services for the collection, distribution and clearance of items through a Miami warehouse. "This service will accommodate persons who purchase items online or overseas. It is geared towards removing the hassle of purchasing and clearing items through customs," he explained.

The five selected post offices will also offer a courier service which will provide pick-up and mail service for customers in the Corporate Area. They would also provide door-to-door service at competitive prices, with accountable delivery and tracking systems.

Speaking broadly about the Electronics Transactions Act, Mr. Mullings noted that many opportunities exist for the provision of electronic services for all major sectors in Jamaica, including e-banking, e-agriculture, e-security, e-learning, e-health and e-tourism services, which when tapped will translate into "increased revenue for Jamaica".