At his first international conference since taking office, the new Minister of Public Administration and Artificial Intelligence, Dominic Smith, outlined a bold digital vision for the country and the wider Caribbean.
Speaking at the Caribbean Spectrum Management Conference at the Hyatt Regency, he addressed everything from 5G networks and AI to regional collaboration.
Minister Smith said it’s time for Trinidad and Tobago — and the region — to lead the way in embracing cutting-edge technology.
He also proposed a digital upgrade for everyday services — including free-to-air TV, education, and disaster relief — using advanced broadcasting systems.
“A third endeavour might be to revolutionise the experiences for our free-to-air viewers, education recipients, and disaster relief agencies through the adoption of digital terrestrial television using ATSC 3.0 technology.”
The Minister said managing the radio frequency spectrum, the invisible resource that powers our wireless world, is critical. He reminded delegates that small island states like Trinidad and Tobago face double pressure: climate change and limited resources.
“Global warming and the threats presented to Caribbean countries and of course the resource constraints due to these harsh economic conditions are typically faced by Small Island Developing States.”
Minister Smith also pushed for regional unity in how countries manage spectrum, saying collaboration can bring real economic benefits and reduce interference across borders.
“Let’s address regional harmonisation as crucial because as a region of diverse nations unique geographical challenges and, I believe, shared ambitions the Caribbean stands to gain immensely from a unified approach to spectrum management. It reduces interference, as well as ensures efficient resource use, and fosters a more integrated telecommunications industry and market.”