CICRA (the Channel Islands Competition and Regulatory Authorities) has launched a consultation into the wholesale rates for broadband charged to other licenced operators in Jersey following notification from JT of the wholesale prices it proposes to charge.
CICRA interim chief executive, Michael Byrne, explained that JT’s investment in the Gigabit Jersey project would see all homes connected to fibre by the end of 2016.
“This is a major investment in Jersey’s communications infrastructure which will support communication services and underpin economic growth in the island for decades to come,” he said.
“It is therefore critical, for these benefits to be fully realised, that the charges for access to the JT’s wholesale services are reasonable.
“A competitive communications market benefits consumers by providing better choice, value and innovative services. In order that wholesale rates for broadband services in Jersey support these aims they need to be set at levels that allow for efficient market entry by other retail competitors to JT.
“The levels also need to reflect an efficiently-provided service that encourages investment in the network and allows for a fair return on that investment.”
CICRA is now consulting on the proposed methodology for determining these charges.
Those wishing to comment on the consultation should do so by 30 May 2014. CICRA will announce its decision on wholesale broadband pricing in Jersey in Q3 of 2014.