Communication minister lauds trailblazers in ECTEL's establishment

Wednesday, March 3, 2010 – The government of Saint Lucia has taken time out to applaud the pioneers of the Eastern Caribbean Telecommunications Authority ECTEL, as the organization celebrates 10 years of existence.

In addressing the gathering at the launch of ECTEL's anniversary, Minister for Communications, Works, Transport and Public Utilities, Honourable Guy Joseph said, Saint Lucia must pay tribute to the former leaders who pioneered the establishment of the sub-regional telecommunications regulating body which has become a world model.

Their contribution, he said, must never go un-applauded.

“In the particular case of Saint Lucia, recognition must be given to former ministers Mr. Calixte George who played a leading role in the formation of ECTEL and helped to steer the telecoms liberalization process through difficult days. His successor, Mr. Felix Finisterre, must also be remembered. I would not be standing here on behalf of ECTEL had the way not been paved by these persons.”

Former prime minister of Saint Lucia Hon. Dr. Kenny Anthony, took some moments to relive the birth of the Eastern Caribbean Telecommunications Authority.

Dr. Anthony said he is proud of the accomplishments of ECTEL, especially at the international level, a testimony that the intentions and diligent work of all regional leaders have come to fruition.

“We pledged to negotiate a flat rate for telephone services as a means of opening up the countries and removing price discrimination for persons living in rural areas, ensure that each secondary school has access to the information highway, require that Cable and Wireless increase its penetration rate of installing telephones not just in communities but in households, ensure the introduction of measures that require cable and wireless to improve Customer Service to its customers, abolish tax of local calls and expand access to cable television, and enhance access to other national television programs in the region to enable people to keep in touch with their lives and happenings of the Caribbean people.”

Former government minister, Calixte George and then Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Kenny Anthony, were the chief regional leaders who realized and articulated the importance of universal access and use of telecommunication services to national and regional development.

ECTEL was commissioned on May 4, 2000.

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