The Isle of Man government’s Communications Commission is inviting written
responses, by February 11, 2010, as part of a revision of regulation on communications.
The Telecommunications Act dates back
to 1984 and the Broadcasting Act has remained largely unchanged since 1993;
both were drafted in a largely pre-mobile, pre-digital and pre-Internet age. The Commission is therefore looking to update the Island's communications law in order, in its view, to ensure the Island’s infrastructure remains
cutting-edge so as to remain competitive and to develop new wealth-creating
industries, as well as to ensure the Island has the best
regulatory framework to enable continual development of its communications networks
and services for residents, visitors and businesses.
The Commission is therefore recommending an approach modeled around two central principles:
- Regulation focused on developing a communications infrastructure that will
maximize the Island’s social and economic potential; and
- A regulatory approach that emphasizes cooperation as the first approach
to tackling disputes or areas of concern.
The government considers that this approach will provide “a more certain
environment for operators to continue to invest and upgrade communications infrastructure
and help stimulate new and innovative services for consumers and businesses
alike.”
Adrian Earnshaw, Chairman of the Communications Commission, commented on the
government decision:
“Given the current financial challenges we are facing, both globally
and those unique to the Island, economic diversification is key and I believe
fast and effective modern communications networks and services will underpin
the Island’s success in years to come. Effective and forward-looking regulation
is therefore vital if the Isle of Man wishes to attract investment and innovation
in these areas.”
Carmel McLaughlin, Director of the Communications Commission, added:
“Until a few years ago, there were only two incumbent licensees on the Island
– Manx Telecom and Manx Radio. Today, we have two mobile operators (and
a third is licensed but not yet operational), five Internet Service Providers
and three radio stations – all competing for the attention of a population
of just 82,000 people.”
“This competition has undoubtedly brought with it benefits for residents
and businesses but the legislation available to the Commission has not evolved
to keep pace. This is an opportunity for the Island to create a forward-looking
regulatory approach which facilitates cooperation and investment and, ultimately,
greater value for the Isle of Man.”
Responses to the consultation, available via the government’s website,
will, in part, form the basis for the revision to the Island’s communications
regulation, to be debated throughout 2010.
LAWANDTAX-NEWS.COM
