InternetNZ welcomes excellent government decisions

InternetNZ welcomes excellent government decisions – Telecommunications Stocktake

Wednesday 3 May 2006

"InternetNZ is delighted with the package of decisions the government has announced, at the conclusion of the telecommunications stocktake," said InternetNZ President Colin Jackson today.

"Our key message has been heard: that there is and never was a 'silver bullet' to pull New Zealand up the OECD broadband rankings. The Government’s decisions acknowledge this, and are a broad ranging series of changes that will deliver improved competition, more investment and better services for all New Zealanders," said Keith Davidson, Executive Director.

"As always the devil is in the detail, but the detail we have seen to date is excellent. Initiatives included, taken together, will all play a part in delivering better services. A critical element in making these reforms work will be getting the detail right, and ensuring they are implemented at a reasonable speed.

"While these decisions will take time to implement, they are major steps in the right direction. InternetNZ will continue to monitor the rollout of these reforms and will support the government's intent as shown by today's announcements wherever we can," Colin Jackson said.

"Telecom's rapid and negative response to the government's announcement means that the proposed investigation into a structural or operational split of the company's wholesale and retail businesses becomes more important. The government's decisions show it is determined to see the development of a truly competitive market, and if the company isn't willing to address this, then consequences will have to follow," said Keith Davidson.

"These decisions open the playing field for industry competitors to show their commitment to New Zealand consumers by investing in new infrastructure and services. We look forward to hearing of their plans," Keith Davidson said.

"Finally, InternetNZ is pleased to note that the reforms are in line with our submissions to government on the direction ahead. We are confident they will deliver," concluded Colin Jackson.

ENDS