I read with interest the Court of Appeal’s dismissal of Cable and Wireless’ application to reduce the mobile termination rates, as submitted to the ICTA.
It seems that the ruling is based solely on the fact that the original agreement between Cable and Wireless and Digicel determining these rates, is legally binding and cannot be revoked or amended.
However this in no way alters the fact that these rates are extortionate, as anyone who has a landline and examines their billing for mobile calls will readily recognise.
As both Cable and Wireless and Digicel have large numbers of cell phone customers in the Cayman Islands, it is inevitable that the majority of cell phone calls in Cayman will attract termination charges.
Cable and Wireless have at least recognised that initially when they entered into the agreement they were being a little greedy, and now wish to reduce the charges.
Digicel on the other hand have refused to countenance any reduction that would obviously benefit all the cell phone users in Cayman.
In a classic case of corporate doublespeak we have the AGM of Digicel (Cayman) commenting on the ruling and stating that “this is a significant step in ensuring that the people of the Cayman Islands can enjoy the benefits of a fully liberalised market.’
Perhaps Mr. Latty can explain the benefits to the consumer, of refusing to agree to a reduction in their existing exorbitant termination charges.
Finally I would question the role of the ICTA in this matter. If they exist to protect the public interest in the local communications marketplace, why on earth are they apparently supporting Digicel in this matter?
Roger M. Davies
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