The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) officially releases its Final

Determination on the Modifications and Variations to the Electronic Communications Sector

(ECS) Individual Licences, Class Licences, and Exemptions following an extensive public

consultation process.

In its Preliminary Determination, issued on 20 August 2024, URCA outlined proposed revisions

to the terms and conditions of ECS licences, as well as criteria for exemptions. Stakeholders,

including major telecom operators like Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC), Cable

Bahamas Limited (CBL), Be Aliv Limited, and the Global Satellite Operators Association (GSOA),

were invited to provide their feedback during the consultation period, which closed on 20

September 2024.

URCA’s Final Determination, published today, incorporates the insights gathered during the

consultation, reflecting a balanced approach to the evolving needs of The Bahamas’ electronic

communications sector while addressing stakeholder concerns.

The final determination updates the terms and conditions of individual and class licences to

better align with technological advancements and market developments in the ECS since the

original licences were issued in 2009.

URCA carefully considered the input from all respondents, including significant comments from

BTC, CBL, and the GSOA. While URCA has maintained much of its original stance on the

revisions, some adjustments were made based on stakeholder feedback to ensure clarity and

prevent unnecessary duplication of regulations.

URCA reiterates the importance of transparency and open dialogue, emphasizing that the

public consultation process is central to its regulatory role.

While the Final Determination is now in effect, URCA encourages ongoing feedback from

stakeholders and the general public. This feedback will help inform future regulatory decisions

and ensure that the ECS in The Bahamas continues to evolve in response to new challenges and

opportunities.

URCA remains focused on creating a fair and competitive environment within the ECS,

promoting innovation, protecting consumer interests, and ensuring that The Bahamas remains

at the forefront of communications technology.

For more information, including the full text of the Final Determination, modified licences and

the stakeholder responses, please email requests to info@urcabahamas.bs or visit

www.urcabahamas.bs as of October 21 as the site is currently undergoing maintenance.

Media Contact:

Juan McCartney

Corporate and Consumer Relations Manager

Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority

jmccartney@urcabahamas.bs

1 (242) 396-5242