MPs receive EU-funded tablets to enhance e-government services

AMMAN — The House of Representatives on Monday celebrated the official handover of tablet computers to the deputies, under the framework of the first component of the European Union (EU) funded project for the support of Jordanian democratic institutions and their development. 

The ceremony was inaugurated by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Atef Tarawneh, who commended the efforts of the EU to “invigorate the deputies”, stressing that “time will not wait for anyone and the House of Representatives will continue to work towards the digital implementation.”

Tarawneh highlighted the security ensured by the tablets, noting that the House of Representatives will make sure that their application “stays away from misuse”.

Andrea Matteo, Head of the Delegation of the EU in Jordan, stated that “the European Union believes in the democratic system and this project is a reflection of those values, working towards the facilitation of the work of Jordanian democratic institutions and the communication of the public with their representatives.”

He congratulated Tarawneh on being “such a strong partner”, noting that the delegation aims to “open a new page of cooperation with Jordan in order to improve the transparency and accessibility of institutions”.

The ceremony served  as an occasion for the representatives to officially present the environmental policy, the overarching framework under which the tablets were provided to cut the paper-usage under the Dome. 

In this regard, secretary general of the House of Representatives, Firas Adwan, noted how the ceremony represented the institution’s aim to take environmental-friendly steps, with MPs choosing to use electronic devices to protect the environment. 

“We had previous initiatives in this matter such as the use of LED lights or chargeable cars,” said Adwan, adding that “the House of Representatives is looking forward to move from the consultation to the execution of the policy and to see the real results on the ground.”

Project Director Said Sanadiki wrapped up the ceremony by presenting the rationale for the provision of the devices. 

“The tablet computers will help the House of Representatives to continue with the national plan for the implementation of the electronic government, providing the deputies with digital assistance in the decision making,” the official said. 

Furthermore, Sanadiki highlighted that the tablets will “improve the communication of the representatives with the citizens, building a channel through which the public can provide feedback to the institutions”.