Information Technology Week 2000: Island Connections

Information Technology (IT) Week 2000, May 4 to 14 has something for everyone - whether you're in business, an IT professional, a seasoned Internet surfer or just getting started. This year, IT Week focuses on Island Connections with plenty of activities geared to improving your connections to family, friends, businesses and information.

"Technology is playing a major role in helping Prince Edward Island shape social outcomes, enhance our local economy and our connections to the global marketplace, and improve the delivery of services and strengthen our communities," said Mitch Murphy, Minister of Technology and Environment. "Prince Edward Island is quickly becoming known as the Smart Province - the players, products and events of IT Week 2000 will demonstrate and reinforce why the province has earned this designation." IT Week is hosted by the Information Technologies Association of Prince Edward Island in association with the Knowledge Economy Partnership and its members, Veterans Affairs Canada, the Province of Prince Edward Island, Holland College and the University of Prince Edward Island.

Industry Canada, the federal government department leading the Connecting Canadians initiative to make Canada the most connected country in the world, is a key partner of IT Week 2000 in Prince Edward Island.

The goals of IT Week 2000 are to raise awareness of Information Technology, build confidence in the use of IT and encourage Islanders to use IT to add value to their lives. Whether an IT expert or a novice, IT Week 2000 is sure to introduce Islanders to the latest developments. Highlighting advances in information technology in business, education, government and the impact of these advances on our daily lives, this event will provide a glimpse into our high-tech future. A number of the workshops are free to attend as is an IT Expo with exhibitors and retailers.

"IT Week in PEI 2000 is an excellent opportunity for the Island's IT industry to increase the awareness of information technology sector and the opportunities open to all Islanders," said Ed Lawlor, President, Information Technologies Association of Prince Edward Island (ITAP). "PEI's business community has come to recognize our talent, creativity and entrepreneurship. Through ITAP's leadership, this year's program has been designed to strengthen business relationships and demonstrate the IT industry's commitment to developing and delivering world-class products and services. ITAP is once again proud to be a partner of IT Week," added Lawlor.

To register for workshops or for more information, visit the IT Week 2000 website at www.itweek.itas.net or call 1-877-7IT-WEEK (toll free) or 368-9004 (local).

Media Contact: Verna Lynne Weeks