And yes, you heard right, the PUC is already working on regulations for a telecoms industry that is reconfigured as a monopoly. Just like that.
The PM characterized this quantum shift in casual terms:
Reporter
"So the government has taken a policy decision in relation to the telecoms industry and to provide for a monopoly now through just an SI which would not have to go to Parliament means that you in essence are supporting a monopoly that the people is rejecting. Are you prepared that you will see demonstrations in the streets over this?"
John Briceno, Prime Minister
"Your questions are very loaded. I think I would accept that there is some concerns and what we're saying by doing just an SI, an SI is simply just to put things on hold, on pause, nothing will happen until, you know, how best to be able to regulate the industry. And and at the end of the day we need to remember BTL, taxpayers paid six hundred and ten million plus we still don't get the full amount for two-thirds of the telecom industry. And from BTL's perspective they believe that if they were to buy the other one third that their efficiencies that could come into place and that they'll be able to withstand the challenges that are coming to Belize. And at the end of the day they need to do what is in the best interest of the company and by extension us as a government need to be able to protect our taxpayers monies and social security monies."
We note that the Telecoms act - which has laws against anti competitive practices - is a parent act and cannot be trumped by an SI. But, we'll see where it goes.
