Govt covering their tracks over Telecom

The Government is taking legal advice on Telecom’s price rises for rural communities to cover for their own mistakes, says National’s Regional Development spokesperson John Carter.

The Government is now seeking legal advice on whether Telecom is breaching the Kiwishare agreement, which guarantees equitable coverage and services for rural areas.

“The Kiwishare agreement was re-negotiated by the Government less than 12 months ago. They should have made it clear exactly what was expected from Telecom.

“It will defeat the whole purpose of the agreement if Telecom can get away with huge charges for phone services in remote areas.

“Any stuff-up or oversight by the Government in negotiating the deal shouldn’t allow Telecom to shaft rural areas,” said Mr Carter.

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