Telecoms providers, government pleased with end to tower freeze
By Ryan Hass
Reporter - SKNVibes.com
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Hon. Julian Fraser
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TORTOLA, B.V.I-THE ninety-five day freeze on cellular tower construction in the British Virgin Islands has come to an end after “constructive” discussions led to a resolution that all three licensed mobile service providers and the BVI government found acceptable.
In response to increased public concerns about health hazards and aesthetic issues associated with the erection of cellular towers, especially in residential areas, Hon. Julian Fraser Minister with responsibility for Communications and Works on July 22 announced in the House of Assembly Government’s decision to put a freeze on the erection of cellular towers in the Territory until further notice.
Fraser had suggested that CCT Global Communications, Cable and Wireless (BVI) Ltd, and Digicel (BVI) Ltd, share the existing cell towers as they had been required to do in other countries where they operated.
On September 26, Minister Fraser met with representatives from all three telecoms companies to “bring closure to what has been a costly and controversial issue”.
“At the meeting we examined in detail a total of 20 cellular telephone tower sites and were able to reach common ground on all, with clear directive and understanding on the road ahead,” Fraser said.
Chief Executive Officer for communications giant Digicel, Alan Bates, welcomed Fraser’s decision saying that it would now allow the company’s plans for providing a “Bigger, Better Network” to the BVI to move forward. ~~Adz:Right~~
“Digicel is very anxious to be able to deliver on its promise to BVI to bring crystal clear coverage, excellent customer care and innovative services that offer customers the best value for their money.
“We do feel that the process [of discussions] has been very worthwhile and effective, and I think going forward, the environment, all operators and the people of this territory will benefit,” Bates said in a public statement following the freeze removal.
Digicel was particularly interested in resuming the building of towers, being the only mobile provider in the country that remained incomplete at the time of the freeze. The company received their license to operate in the territory in December 2007 but saw their development permission notice revoked because of the work stoppage.
Bates did not reveal when Digicel would officially launch their network in BVI now that the freeze was lifted, but would only say that it was “coming soon”.
British Virgin Islands News