Malta must make use of technology and Artificial Intelligence to prepare for a possible second wave of coronavirus, Nationalist Party spokesman for digital society, Ivan J Bartolo, said.
“I am pleased to see Malta doing so well and I appeal that that we continue to abide by measures and social distancing. We ask the health authorities how they are preparing themselves for a potential second wave of Covid-19? We must use technology to strengthen our battle against this invisible enemy.”
Speaking on Friday, Bartolo said that the government should invest more in the use of AI technology, especially when it comes to contact tracing of individuals who have been tested for COVID-19 and taking care of the elderly. “Through the use of technology we can strengthen our communication between the community and the health authorities; we should have a means of having a 24/7 channel, either through Facebook or Whatsapp, to constantly provide information to the community of precautions and measures.” He said that a similar app already exists in the UK called “Cora”.
Bartolo said that the government should look into the collection of data from mobile phones of those who have been tested for COVID-19 and can help contact tracing. “We of course will have to consider the legalities and data protection of such an app, but this could help us into seeing who the patient tested for COVID-19 was in contact with.”
PN spokesman for investment and EU funds Kristy Debono said that in a short period of time, numerous individuals are able to transform and adapt their lives with the aid of technology. “It is important that the government takes the right steps and is proactive to aid the numerous sectors, such as the digital sector and health sector.”
She said that retail, hospitality and entertainment businesses are currently suffering and that such businesses must be provided means to continue their businesses. “There are a number of small businesses which are not coping to provide their services and products and the government cannot be selective in who to help.”
Karl Gouder, shadow minister of local councils and communities, said that local councils have played a large role in supporting the community. “Local councils are going over and above when it comes to providing a service to their community, and they are facing a lot of pressure.”
Whilst there is already a “You Save” platform, set up and run by Local Councils, Gouder explained that there needs to be more investment in the online platform to reach out more individuals. “The government should provide an online one stop shop for local councillors to provide all the information they have and services they are providing to their community.”