LLU decision unacceptable: CWU
Summary: CWU argues that while LLU may lead to a reduction of prices, it will not promote universal access for the majority. The union calls for the status quo to be maintained.
The Communications Workers Union (CWU) today (11 OCtober 2011) told ICASA that Local Loop Unbundling (LLU) will not lead to sustainable long term competition, and may inhibit infrastructure based competition.
Speaking at the ICASA LLU hearings in Sandton the CWU argued that while LLU may well lead to a decrease in prices, it will not lead to universal access due to limitations in network coverage.
“LLU may lead to a reduction of prices for those who have access to the network, but it will not promote universal access for the majority.”
The CWU said that the rich, white urban population will be the likely beneficiaries of LLU, and not poorer black people in rural areas.
The CWU also warned that LLU may lead to the opening of further avenues for abuse of security and intelligence agencies for the benefit of certain unscrupulous individuals and groups.
The CWU said that the status quo should be maintained as a decision on LLU was taken prematurely and it is therefore unreasonable, unrealistic and unacceptable.
“Will LLU do any good to South Africa? The answer is No,” the CWU told ICASA.
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