Consumer Protection Regulations for the Electronic Communications Sector (ECS) become effective on December 30, 2013, with the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority’s (URCA) publication of the final regulations [URCA document reference ECS 19/2013]. Publication of the regulations concludes a process initiated on June 10, 2013 when URCA released draft regulations for public consultation. Consultation activities included public meetings on the draft regulations in New Providence, Abaco, Andros, Eleuthera, Grand Bahama and San Salvador; in addition to appearances by URCA representatives in various broadcast media forums.
URCA also published on December 30, 2013 its Statement of Results [URCA document reference ECS 18/2013], detailing feedback received on the draft regulations during the consultation period; and including URCA’s analysis and review of this feedback. This feedback included detailed responses to the consultation document from BTC and CBL and its affiliates; comments received at public meetings; and comments from individuals who sent in written responses.
URCA has granted service providers six months from the effective date, to meet requirements imposed by the new regulations. For a copy of the full press release, you may follow the below PDF document link.