TRR, as the Universal Access Policy (UAP) implementing agency appointed by the Government, is pleased to provide to all Stakeholders its first public Report in respect of the implementation of the UAP which was approved by the Council of Ministers (COM), in November 2013.
This Report contains an update on developments to date with implementation of the UAP since its approval last year. TRR has provided two In-Confidence Reports to the Minister and recognizes the need to keep all stakeholders updated and fully aware of the key UAP developments and progress; hence this first update Report has been developed.
TRR is pleased to report that significant progress has been made in respect of UAP implementation and to securing industry commitment and cooperation in meeting the UAP requirements and objectives. This has not been without some setbacks to balance the progress made and pockets of industry criticism; of both the UAP and TRR’s potential implementation interpretations. However, there is wide overall support for the UAP from the three major operators: Digicel, TVL and Telsat, as well as business, consumers, stakeholders, and the industry at large.
The identified ‘Players’ that have committed to rolling out new services in accordance with the Government’s UAP: Digicel, TVL and Telsat, have submitted plans for rolling out new sites and extending their existing network. TRR views this willing commitment, from a national policy perspective, as very encouraging and indicative of the immediate success of the Government’s UAP; with many millions of USD committed by industry through cooperative and voluntary means.
Those that are not ‘Players’ must pay a levy to reflect equity, fairness and an “all licensees to assist” approach to ensure they provide maximum support to the ‘Players’.