A National Consultation was held here yesterday to assess the implications of the planned merger between Cable and Wireless and Columbus Communications
The event, the first of its kind was organized jointly by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the National Telecommunications Regulatory Commission and the Chamber of Industry and Commerce.
The main objective of the Consultation was to highlight the potential advantages and disadvantages of the merger in the local and regional contexts.
In his address at the opening ceremony, Minister of Foreign Affairs and ICT, Camillo Gonsalves said the issue of choice and consumer protection are important areas that should be addressed.
Meanwhile … Head of Government Relations at Cable and Wireless Communications, Chris Dehring says the merger is expected to improve service delivery to customers in the region, but he says there are some challenges.
And … Chief Operating Officer of Columbus Communications, John Reid says if the merger is approved regulators would have to insist on certain conditions.
Last year, Cable and Wireless and Columbus Communications announced the deal in a joint statement, saying the proposed acquisition valued at just over three billion US dollars will enable the combined company to significantly accelerate its growth strategy.
