Access denied

Those wishing to access government departments and local councils - whether to request information or lodge a complaint - have an online, free, one-stop shop in the shape of the website www.servizz.gov.mt.

Or do they? Things are not what they seem to be, for despite assurances on the website that "citizens" can "from the comfort of their home" make use of this "single point of access", the website glosses over a fundamental step.

Citizens need to travel to the far end of Valletta, to Evans Laboratories to be exact, to acquire an electronic ID. Without this, you cannot begin to avail yourself of this portal which promises a hassle-free solution to all public services needs.

How many will leave "the comfort of their home" to traipse down to the bottom of Merchants Street to acquire this electronic ID? Are we really in the e-comfort age or just in the pseudo.com one?

It seems to be a case of government appearing to give voice to the people, but in fact making it difficult for these voices to be heard. The Parliamentary Secretary for Public Dialogue and Information might wish to comment on this.