InternetNZ extends deadline for convergence discussion paper

InternetNZ extends deadline for convergence discussion paper

Media release - 18 February 2013

This release is available online at http://tinyurl.com/b2jjld6

InternetNZ (Internet New Zealand Inc) has today extended the deadline for responses to its discussion paper – ‘Responding to Convergence in Communications Markets’.

The discussion paper – available at http://tinyurl.com/czqy5o7 – flags the blurring of boundaries between the country’s broadcast media and telecommunications markets and the challenge this represents for existing policy frameworks.

As well as providing information about different competition regulation regimes that apply to broadcasting and telecommunications, the discussion paper defines several basic principles that should drive New Zealand’s response to the converged environment. It also considers the approach to convergence taken by other jurisdictions.

InternetNZ spokesperson Susan Chalmers says there have been a number of recent developments in New Zealand that directly relate to the discussion paper – the nature of which will help inform people’s submissions.

“The Commerce Commission is currently investigating pay TV provider Sky’s contracts with Internet service providers because those contracts may be hindering competition. The findings of that investigation, when they are available, will be relevant to peoples’ submission on the discussion document.

“It is unclear when the Commerce Commission will issue that report, but we believe it should be in the first half of this year. Therefore we’d like to extend our date for responses to the discussion paper until May 1st or a month after the report is issued, whichever is earlier.

“Also, the Government has just announced it will conduct a wholesale policy review of the Telecommunications Act. We would like to know if parties believe that the option of a converged regulatory framework should be a consideration in that review.

“A fresh look at the existing policy and regulatory frameworks for telecommunications and broadcasting in New Zealand is required. Our paper is intended as a starter for discussion and we are keen to gather the views of as many interested parties as possible,” says Chalmers.

Feedback on the discussion paper can be emailed to susan@internetnz.net.nz.

ENDS

About InternetNZ:
InternetNZ (Internet New Zealand Inc) is the non-profit open membership organisation dedicated to protecting and promoting the Internet in New Zealand and fostering a coordinated, cooperative approach to its ongoing development.

The primary objective of InternetNZ is “high performance and unfettered access for all” so the Internet continues to operate in an open environment that cannot be captured by any entity or individual for their own ends.

www.internetnz.net.nz

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