Internet Cafe And It Centre Opens In Buff Bay

The use of computer technology has become more accessible to the people of Buff Bay in Portland, with the opening of the Buff Bay Information Technology Centre and Internet Cafe on Friday, January 14.

The $6 million facility, which is located at the Lynch Park Sports Complex, is equipped with 24 computers and a server.

It was established through the Community Development Fund (CDF) of Member of Parliament for Western Portland, Hon. Daryl Vaz; the Universal Access Fund (UAF); Microsoft Jamaica; the Social Development Commission (SDC); Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS); and the Lynch Park Management Committee.

Giving the main address at the opening ceremony, Mr. Vaz, who is Minister with responsibility for Information and Telecommunications in the Office of the Prime Minister, said that the operation of the centre constitutes phase one of the Lynch Park complex development project, adding that other segments of the development will include the establishment of a home work facility and an entertainment centre.

He said that the project can play a major role in spearheading the social, educational and commercial advancement of Portland.

The Minister expressed pleasure about the establishment of the technology centre and Internet cafe. He said he was happy to have been able to play a role in bringing the project to reality, and was committed to giving the support and making the representations necessary to ensure the continued operation of the facility.

He also thanked the other organisations involved and appealed to the residents to make the best use of and to take care of the facility.

Also addressing the function was Country Manager, Microsoft Corporation, Joseph McKenson, who congratulated the members of the Buff Bay Community for establishing the project and Managing Director of Universal Access Fund, Hugh Cross, who stated that government’s intention is for every Jamaican to have access to internet service.