USAASA extends definition deadlines

By Staff Writer for USAASA

Johannesburg, 01 Oct 2008

The Universal Service and Access Agency of SA (USAASA) has extended the deadline for comments on proposed definitions.

The agency compiled definitions for universal service and access, under-serviced areas and needy persons, which was published in the Government Gazette in August.

The initial closing date for comment submissions was listed as 12 September, but has been extended to 14 November.

“The agency has received requests for the extension of the initial period stipulated in the Government Gazette. Having considered the matter and the nature of the requests, the agency has agreed to extend the closing date.”

USAASA is also planning to hold public hearings regarding the definitions, which will most likely occur 21 days after it has received the public's comments in writing.

Definitions explained

USAASA's proposed definition for “universal access” is: “That every person, within their area, has reasonable (in terms of distance) and affordable access to publicly available electronic communications network services, electronic communications services, and broadcasting services on a non-discriminatory basis.”

Its proposed definition of “universal service” is: “A reliable connection, from any part of the country, to a defined minimum set of electronic communications services and broadcasting services, at an affordable rate, regardless of geographic location, including no less than voice, data and broadcasting services.”

The proposed definition of “needy people” is: “People who qualify through the application of an agreed 'means test', who cannot afford to obtain electronic communications devices or broadcasting services at commercial rates - for reasons of income, and other factors in relation to income, including geography, age, disability, or other similar factors.”

Copies of the consultative document can be found on the USAASA Web site.