Computer Crimes Bill to ensure smooth business transactions

by Lalin Fernandopulle

The Computer Crimes Bill which is now at the committee stage for amendments will be made law this year, said Science and Technology Minister Prof. Tissa Vitharana on Monday.

He said the present computer crime laws are not stringent enough to curb crimes and violators find loopholes to get away bringing about considerable damage to organisations. The new Computer Crimes Bill enforced as a law will be taboo for any form of violations through the use of computers and those breaching the law will have to pay a severe penalty, Prof. Vitharana said.

Prof. Vitharana was addressing the opening of the Panora PC manufacturing plant at Mattakkuliya.

He said an effective mechanism to trap those who commit computer crimes and penalise violators was a long-felt need to ensure the smooth functioning of business transactions.

"We need to support local products and create a level playing field for all players in the IT industry," Prof. Vitharana said.

The output and the quality of product depends on team work and care for employees. Most big business organisations in the world have achieved success due to the collective effort and care for employees, he said.

Prof. Vitharana said the cost of connectivity which is a big drawback for many to own a computer must be considered in taking the IT industry to the rural community.

Over 8,000 rural schools do not have a computer laboratory and children are denied access to computers.

If rural development is to take place and youth are to be taken to the next generation IT is a must, he said.

Chairman, Information Communication Technology Agency ICTA, Prof. V. K. Samaranayake said Panora should strive to be a global leader in PC manufacture and capture markets as a renowned brand.

Panora Corporation, a subsidiary of PCH Holdings which has a 45 percent market share of its PC desktop brands plans to increase production with its Rs. 1.2 billion modern manufacturing plant.

Chairman, Panora, S. M. H. Rishan said that they will employ 200 skilled workers and would increase the number of employees to meet the growing demand for PCs.

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