The government of the Cook Islands has appointed a new chairman to the country’s regulator ahead of a planned break-up of the monopoly currently held by Vodafone in the market.
Bernard Hill is currently the Telecommunications Commissioner for the Solomon Islands, and previously worked as the Head of Competition Affairs for the communications regulatory authority in Hong Kong. He will oversee the process of tendering for a new operating licence in the market as stipulated in the new Telecommunications Act.
Deputy Prime Minister Mark Brown said: “I am pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Hill to this very important role as the first Cook Islands’ telecommunications regulator. The Authority and its Chair are critical to ensuring a successful transition from the current monopoly situation to an efficient, effective and competitive telecommunications market for the benefit of the industry and consumers.”
Vodafone Cook Islands CEO Phillip Henderson said: “As a licensed operator Vodafone looks forward to working with Mr Hill to deliver on the outcomes of the new Act. We are anticipating that the Authority will release regulations over the coming months associated with the telecoms sector and Vodafone will ensure that we will be in full compliance.”
