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In this issue of the broadsheet:
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Richard Westlake, TCF Chair |
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Commerce Commission’s Telecommunications Commissioner Ross Patterson returned to his desk earlier this month. We’re delighted to welcome Ross back and can report that the TCF has enjoyed a constructive relationship with Anita Mazzoleni, who has filled the role enthusiastically during his absence.
Applications for the position of TCF CEO closed on 7 August, and the Board's Appointment Committee is very encouraged by the number of applications. The TCF is processing these now and drawing up a shortlist of applicants for interview.
Finally, I’m looking forward to announcing the winner of the Telecommunications Carrier of the Year Award at the annual TUANZ Innovation Awards, which is voted on by TUANZ members. This black-tie dinner event will be held at the SkyCity Convention Centre on 3rd September 2009. |
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Draft Customer Transfer Code out for Consultation |
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Submissions have been invited on TCF’s Transfer of Telecommunications Services (“The Customer Transfer Code”), an amended version of the code first drafted in 2006. It is intended to ensure seamless transfer of customers’ telecommunication services between service providers, and is closely related to number portability.
Key issues include updating the code to reflect additional parties involved in the supply chain in today’s UCLL environment and clarifying parties’ supply-chain roles and responsibilities including a new requirement to store the full chain of supply for each customer.
Workshops have been held in Auckland and Wellington as part of the public consultation process. The closing date for feedback on the draft code is 5pm, Tuesday 15 September 2009. Email your submission to jackie.clark@tcf.org.nz or post it to the Telecommunications Carriers’ Forum, P O Box 302469, North Harbour, North Shore City 0751.
For more details visit: www.tcf.org.nz/ct |
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Forum Welcomes Copyright Proposal |
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The TCF has welcomed the latest Ministry of Economic Development proposal on copyright law that would see an independent expert, such as the Copyright Tribunal, adjudicate on suspected internet copyright theft.
The TCF remains concerned, though, that the proposal does not specify who has to identify repeat infringers. The TCF believes that ISPs are the only parties who can do this and that they will be required to report repeat infringement back to rights holders. This will impose significant costs on ISPs who will have to adapt systems and set up processes to help third parties enforce their rights. “We believe ISPs should be reimbursed for any costs of taking on this quasi law-enforcement role beyond simply passing on notices to alleged infringers,” said TCF independent chairperson Richard Westlake. In the TCF’s view, the primary objective of the proposed system should be to educate people on the harm that copyright infringement can cause.
Submission
The Forum’s submission - which was supported by both ISPANZ and TUANZ - said ISPs should not have to act as internet policeman and judges, nor should they have to settle the competing copyright claims of rightsholders and customers. This incurred costs for providers having to adapt systems and set up processes for helping third parties enforce their rights.
The submission said TCF would like to see the Government put more effort into ensuring content is available to New Zealanders. TCF members indicated that they often found it difficult to negotiate rights to carry certain content, with the result that people looked elsewhere for it. This encouraged lack of respect for copyright and creative effort, and impacted on other New Zealanders.
To view the full submission visit: www.tcf.org.nz/copyright |
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Non-Premium Messaging Code in Development |
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The Mobile Premium Messaging working party is to look at developing a code for non-premium messaging. It is considering whether to create a new code or adapt the premium messaging code drawn up last year to cover both types. The code will set out best-practice standards for managing these services.
The working party will take the opportunity to review the 2008 premium messaging code for any updating requirements. |
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The TCF have now released a set of Interception guidelines which will streamline processes and reduce confusion by implementing an industry agreed solution. These guidelines will assist Network Operators and Service Providers in complying with the TICA in an efficient, timely and cost effective manner. These guidelines must be read in conjunction with the TICA - the TICA takes precedence over these guidelines.
The Interception guidelines were originally endorsed by the TCF Board in June 2009 with a subsequent update to the guidelines being endorsed in August 2009. For more detail, go to: http://www.tcf.org.nz/intercept |
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Contact Information |
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If you require further information please contact the Forum Administrator.
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