Vodacom calls for local loop audit
Summary: Vodacom supports ICASA’s local loop unbundling (LLU) process, but says that a local loop audit is necessary to determine the current state of Telkom’s copper local loop
‘The local loop unbundling (LLU) hearings kicked off today (11 October 2011) where stakeholders are trying to convince ICASA that their LLU plans are the best.
MTN supported LLU, but asked ICASA to leave the mobile and wireless local loops alone.
In their presentation, Vodacom supported ICASA’s intention to use the Electronic Communications Facilities Leasing Regulations (Facilities Leasing Regulations) to unbundle the local loop.
Vodacom said that they would like to see all four internationally recognised forms of LLU implemented: bit stream access, line sharing, full local loop unbundling and sub-loop unbundling.
“The access seeker should then be able to determine which form [of LLU] to implement based on specific requirements on a case by case basis,” said Vodacom.
Vodacom called on ICASA to undertake a local loop audit to determine the current state of the local loop. This investigation should look into the quality, maintenance and technical compatibility of Telkom’s copper local loop.
“An audit will provide a transparent view to all interested parties of the potential opportunity and risks associated with LLU,” said Vodacom.
Vodacom added that the current lack of information impedes meaningful participation by interested parties in the discussion around LLU.
Vodacom further questioned whether there are not other methods (hence not LLU) which can be applied to achieve the objectives of the regulator (like more affordable telecoms services and better broadband access).
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