National Digitalisation Programme launched today

The much anticipated National Digitalisation Programme (Talgildu Føroyar) was launched today.

According to its website, Talgildu Føroyar “sets out to digitalise services for citizens, industries and the public sector in the Faroe Islands. The objective is to modernise the welfare and services of the population and ultimately create competitiveness, growth and production capacity. Until now, there has been no overall digital strategy on a national level.”

In his speech at today’s launch in Tórshavn’s Nordic House, finance minister Jørgen Niclasen said that the Faroe Islands are a pioneer in this field.

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Project leader Nicolai Mohr Balle said it has taken five years to develop the project. The original cost estimate was DKK 150 million, but due to delays in financing, only DKK 127 million has been spent on the project so far.

Six public institutions – TAKS, Akstovan, Studni, Almannaverkið, Ílegusavnið and Umhvørvisstovan – along with Tórshavn City Council, make up the first phase of the project.

A digital identity

Registered users can apply digitally for e.g. building permits, student grants or pension payments by filling out on-screen application forms without needing to print and scan their details.

Users will have access to a host of information about themselves and their dealings with institutions and local councils. They can also access their personal details in the national register, along with their own family tree dating back to the 17th century.

Financial institutions currently using the Nem-ID login system will be added to the system early next year.

Translated by prosa.fo