The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) has today published a Consultation Document under the caption Draft Guidelines For Digital Transition:  Identification of Available Digital Dividend Spectrum.  This Public Consultation Document is listed as ECS 10/2018.

The objectives of this consultation document are as follows:

1. Set out URCA’s considerations regarding digital television broadcasting, including relevant technical standards and proposed spectrum use;
2. Set out protocols proposed by URCA to ensure an effective and efficient means of transitioning from analog television broadcasting to DTTB recommended for ITU region 2 countries;
3. Recommend an effective and efficient approach to the implementation of Digital Switchover (DSO);
4. Identify key issues and the impact DSO is anticipated to have on stakeholders; and
5. Seek input and feedback on URCA’s recommendations and considerations from interested persons.

URCA encourages all interested parties to make written submissions on the consultation.  Initial responses to this Consultation Document should be submitted to URCA by 5 p.m. on 29 June 2018.

Written responses or comments on this Consultation Document should be sent to URCA’s Director of Electronic Communications, either:

• By hand, to URCA’s office at Frederick House, Frederick Street, Nassau; or
• By mail to P.O. Box N-4860, Nassau, Bahamas; or
• By fax, to (242) 393-0153; or
• By email, to info@urcabahamas.bs.