NASSAU, BAHAMAS — The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) has launched a public consultation process to review and modify existing Electronic Communications Sector (ECS) licenses. This initiative aims to maintain a regulatory framework that is robust, equitable, and aligned with the evolving needs of both the industry and the Bahamian public.
The review will address several key license categories. For Individual Operating Licences (IOLs), URCA proposes revisions to ensure consistency across all licensees. IOLs expiring in 2024 will be renewed for a standard 15-year period, while those with later expiry dates will be renewed for the remainder of their current term. Licensees with outstanding fees will not receive new or revised licenses until their accounts are settled.
Individual Spectrum Licences (ISLs) required for electronic communication services will also be renewed and revised under the same conditions. Like IOLs, no revised licenses will be issued to licensees with unpaid fees.
Class licenses, which do not have a definitive expiration date, will be reissued following this consultation process. Class licensees will need to reapply for the revised licenses, and outstanding fees will prevent the issuance of these licenses.
URCA also plans to revise and replace existing operating and spectrum exemptions to align with current regulatory objectives and the needs of the ECS.
In addition to license revisions, URCA addresses delinquent licensees who have failed to pay required fees. The proposed changes include stricter measures, such as suspending licenses for non-payment. Suspended licensees will be prohibited from providing services until all fees are settled. If the issue persists, URCA reserves the right to revoke the license entirely.
The consultation document and its annexes contain more detailed information on the proposed changes to license conditions. URCA invites all stakeholders, including industry operators, consumer groups, and the general public, to participate in this consultation process.
The public consultation process is open until 20 September 2024.
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