The deadline for applications for value-added network services (VANS) and private telephone network (PTN) licences is 27 February, and an application will cost R5 000, but some applicants feel they will not get their money`s worth.
A number of VANS operators recently vented their frustrations by writing in to online discussion forums, claiming they don`t see what they will be getting for their application fees.
One even went so far as to claim that if the R5 000 fee "bought" him nothing, it meant there was little difference between the application fees set down by the regulator and a criminal protection racket.
However, it has been pointed out that it would be more useful to compare the application fee to a local municipality that collects rates and taxes, or the SA Revenue Service, which collects VAT and income tax.
In much the same way as these taxes pay for community services like a police force and fire department, so the Independent Communications Authority of SA (ICASA) Web site points out that the regulator is there to provide the following services:
- To monitor the environment and enforce compliance with rules, regulations and policies.
- To hear and decide on disputes and complaints brought by industry or members of the public against licensees.
- To plan, control and manage the frequency spectrum.
- To protect consumers from unfair business practices, poor quality services and harmful or inferior products.
According to ISPA`s Ant Brooks, who was speaking only in his private capacity and not as an ISPA member, applicants who feel strongly about the application fees should voice their opinions to the relevant authorities, rather than simply venting their frustrations in discussion forums.
"It is always good for industry to voice its opinions. It`s all well and good to discuss it online, but feedback to the relevant authorities is important - government appreciates feedback on both the good and the bad issues within the industry," he says.
"I believe that those who have complaints should provide written feedback - which I believe will have a greater impact than, say, an e-mail message - to the people in government who have the potential to do something about it."
Should anyone wish to provide feedback - whether positive or negative - to the authorities, they should address their concerns to one of the following people:
Dr Ivy Matsepe-Casaburri, minister of communications, or Pakamile Pongwana, acting director-general, Department of Communications, at Private Bag X860, Pretoria, 0001; Alex Erwin, minister of trade and industry, at Private Bag X274, Pretoria, 0001; or Dr Alistair Ruiters, director-general, Department of Trade and Industry, at Private Bag X84, Pretoria, 0001.
Related stories:
VANS issues discussed as deadline looms
Applications sought for VANS, PTN licences
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