The Communications and Utilities Regulatory Authority (CURA) has launched an investigation into allegations of anti-competitive behaviour by government owned organisations.
Allegations have been levelled at e-Ilan Communications Limited and/or Manx Cable Company Limited, both owned by Manx Utilities, following a complaint from Bluewave Communications Limited.
The complaint alleges that the firms may be restricting access to a subsea fibre optic cable, described as an essential facility, and engaging in a refusal to supply,
CURA confirmed it will assess the claims but stressed that “at this stage it is not possible to come to any preliminary determinations”.
Relevant
The Authority stated it will determine the relevant market and evaluate market power before making further assessments with CURA pledging to conduct the investigation in an “open, transparent, and non-discriminatory manner.”.
CURA emphasised its duty to “further the interests of all members of the public in the island in relation to communications matters” and noted the potential for “consumer harm” and “distortion to healthy competition” if the allegations are proven.
The investigation’s strategic significance was also highlighted, aligning with the island’s policies promoting competition.
CURA acknowledged risks but deemed the probe “proportional,” adding that dismissing the complaint without investigation “would be inappropriate”.
For further details, see CURA’s full notice here.
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