Ottawa sees no quick decision on Globalive

Tue Nov 3, 2009 9:15pm GMT
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* Minister says won't rush into a decision

* CRTC ruling delays competitive threat to Big Three

* Globalive bought spectrum for C$442 mln last year

OTTAWA, Nov 3 (Reuters) - Canadian Industry Minister Tony Clement said on Tuesday he would take his time in reviewing a regulator's ruling against start-up wireless company Globalive, delaying a competitive threat to the Big Three carriers.

"I'm a big believer against 'ready, fire, aim' on these things. I think we'll review things according to the facts and then we'll have a reasoned response," Clement told reporters.

Clement has promised to review last Thursday's ruling by the federal communications regulator that found Globalive was effectively under the control of its Egyptian-based financial backer, Orascom Telecom (ORTE.CA: Quote, Profile, Research).

As a result of the decision by the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission, Globalive will not be able to mount a challenge in Canada's cellphone market unless Clement overturns it or changes the rules of the game -- or unless Globalive changes its ownership and control structure.

"Obviously we are rock-solid behind more competition for consumers of cellphone products," Clement said.

Globalive, which bought wireless spectrum for C$442 million ($413 million) in a government auction last year, has said the Industry Ministry had earlier accepted its ownership structure.  Continued...

 
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