Trinidad and Tobago consultation on point-to-point radiocommunications systems

The Telecommunications Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (TATT) has initiated a public consultation on point-to-point radiocommunications systems.  According to the consultation document, the TATT is seeking firstly to identify the various frequency bands of operation deployed globally and, in particular, by International Telecommunications Region 2 countries, taking into consideration the frequency bands and assignment plan presently used by point-to-point systems locally. Secondly, the TATT seeks to analyze and summarize the current spectrum availability for the associated frequency bands in Trinidad and Tobago. Finally, based on the above information, the TATT proposes frequency bands and associated assignment plans for the accommodation of point-to-point radiocommunications systems and indicates the appropriate licensing process for the assignment of spectrum to users.

The specific bands discussed in this consultation documents are 1.4 GHz, 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, 5.7 GHz, 5.8 GHz, Lower 6 GHz, Upper 6 GHz, 7 GHz, 8 GHz, 10 GHz, 11 GHz, 13 GHz and 15 GHz. As a general rule, the TATT appears to have rejected the idea of a competitive licensing process for this spectrum and is proposing instead to adopt a "first-come, first served" licensing process (with the exception of the 2.4, 5.7 and 5.8 GHz bands, where the TATT is proposing a class licensing regime and the Upper 6 GHz band, which the TATT is proposing to set aside for Studio-to-Transmitter Links). This approach is consistent with international best practice.

While backhaul has traditionally been carried on copper wire or fiber, telecom operators worldwide are increasingly turning to wireless technology for capacity to meet the increased demand created by growing numbers of bandwidth-hungry mobile devices and applications. Wireless backhaul is particularly desirable in the Caribbean, where laying wire or fiber is often cost-prohibitive. Telecommunications regulators around the world are attempting to come to grips with this important component of modern telecommunications infrastructure. The U.S. Federal Communications Commission, for instance, is currently in the midst of a proceeding on this topic.  The TATT is therefore to be congratulated for tackling such an important issue.

Comments are due October 13, 2010.