Island aims to lead with GIS technology

Bermuda is aiming to become a world leader among small island nations in the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), according to Telecommunications Minister Terry Lister.
Police and Fire Services use the technology to quickly determine the locale of an incident, while Government uses it in planning applications, land valuation and protecting the Island's healthy coral reefs, the Minister said.
Speaking at a press conference marking International GIS day, Mr. Lister said: "GIS in Government is a collective and co-operative effort driven by a number of departments.
"The Government has made exceptional progress in the use of Geographic Information and Bermuda is well positioned to become a worldwide leader among small island nations in the use of GIS. Our main challenge now is to effectively meet and manage the increasing demand for GIS services as more Government departments and businesses begin to realise the value of GIS.
"As Bermuda's environment becomes more complex, emergency services are becoming increasingly dependent on the ability to access multiple layers of geographic data, which can be provided by several departments as for instance, roads, addresses and buildings are provided by the Ministry of Works and Engineering.
"The GIS Committee created the following vision statement as part of its strategy. It states that: 'The Bermuda Government will be, and will be recognised as, a world class provider and user of geographic information and services. With our collaborative, accessible and reliable spatial data infrastructure, we will enhance efficiency and promote integrated decision making to positively impact Bermuda's society, environment and economy.'
"I am confident that the collective efforts of the Government departments on Government's GIS Committee and the strategy we are now embarking upon will make this vision a reality and will position Bermuda to take advantage of the many opportunities and services that can be provided by this technology."
Demonstrations of GIS in surveying, habitat mapping, conservation, planning, archaeology and tourism will take place at Bermuda Aquarium, Museum and Zoo on Monday from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free.

By Tim Smith