TELECOM ADVISER TO PRESENT REPORT ON LIBERALIZED MARKET

On Tuesday 2 November Communications and Works Minister Hon. Paul Wattley gave a report on the Telecommunications Regulatory Advisor’s visit to the BVI. He told Parliamentarians that the BVI government in collaboration with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office hired Mr. Bill Wigglesworth, a telecommunications regulatory adviser whose responsibility was to advise government on the way forward to the liberalization of the telecommunications sector.

During his visit to the territory the (25 -29 October), Wigglesworth held a series of meetings with various stakeholders in the telecommunications sector. These included both public and private sector entities such as: Cable and Wireless (WI) Ltd., BVI Hotel and Commerce Association, Hon. Attorney General, Cable TV (BVI) Ltd., BVI Tourist Accommodation and Properties, Representatives of AT&T/ Cingular, CCT Boat phone Ltd., Science Technology Informatics and E-Commerce Committee and the BVI Government’s Negotiating Team.

Wigglesworth discussed with government representatives policy objectives for telecommunications liberalization and the consideration of potential options for realizing these objectives. He is expected to compile a report for Government and the Foreign and Commonwealth office within two-weeks. This report will include stakeholders views on a liberalized telecommunications sector, suggestions to achieve a liberalized telecommunications sector, and suggestions to achieve a liberalized telecommunications market.  Wigglesworth will also present a draft policy for consultation and consideration of the Administration. The draft policy would set out expectations and requirements for telecommunication operators desiring to do business in the British Virgin Islands.