Public to get chance to help decide the direction of internet

PEOPLE in Co Wexford are being invited to participate in a debate this year in Waterford Institute of Technology aimed at looking at how people can shape the future direction of the internet in a way that empowers the general public.

The ‘We, the Internet’ debate is being organised by Missions Publiques in conjunction with WIT’s research centre TSSG (Telecommunications Software and Systems Group).

The debate will be part of a global initiative involving non-expert people and will be part of the first round of debates taking place in 12 countries all over the world.

A spokesperson for WIT told this newspaper that people of all ages are invited to participate regardless of whether or not they use the internet every day or not at all.

The event is related to a project called SpeakNGI.eu which is a consultative process of the NGI (Next Generation Internet) initiative.

Speaking about the global debate Paul Malone, who is researcher at the TSSG, said the opinion and view of people is very important when it comes to the internet.

‘We recognise that the voice of the citizen is often unheard in defining the future Internet and the services it will deliver,’ said Mr Malone.

‘This global debate is a great opportunity for people to have their say in how [the] future of the Internet should best serve society and its citizens,’ he added.

The debate in Waterford will take place later this month at WIT’s West Campus.

People interested in participating should first fill out a two-minute questionnaire at www.goo.gl/Y8namN and they will be contacted by organisers.

Applicants who are selected to participate will receive a €100 gift voucher and lunch will be provided.