Redial

The telecom watchdog is hoping to revive a 2002 National Communications Policy (NCP), which was to give greater independence and authority to the regulator, while easing technology restrictions in deploying network infrastructure.





The telecom watchdog is hoping to revive a 2002 National Communications Policy (NCP), which was to give greater independence and authority to the regulator, while easing technology restrictions in deploying network infrastructure. Sources close to the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (TRC) say the policy will be resubmitted to the Cabinet for ratification, possibly with some changes to reflect the Freedom Alliance Government’s policies.

Policy included options to reduce traditional limitations or barriers to market entry in favor of a liberalized environment which allows the forces of the market and technology to determine the most effective means to provide services to end users.

This means a technology neutral licensing policy and multi-service networks (offer fixed and mobile communication services).

The document also included a liberal policy on the use of new and cheap technology like Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP).

A Telecom Development Fund (TDF) was also proposed