The Tribune

THE Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority will hold the first in a series of town meetings on the proposed Cable Bahamas fee increases tonight at 6.30pm at the Holy Cross Anglican Church.

Cable Bahamas is seeking a 27 per cent increase in the monthly charge for SuperBasic (RevTvPrime) cable, which represents an increase of $8 per month for residential consumers and $13 for commercial customers. The current monthly rates of $30 and $50 respectively have not changed since Cable Bahamas introduced the service in 1995.

Before URCA makes a decision on the price increase, it is seeking consultation from all stakeholders and members of the public. The issue will be open for comment until October 19.

Among the issues of concern are: the impact on residential and commercial consumer groups if the price increase is improved; if the granted, how the impact may be mitigated and whether any position set forth by URCA in the consultative document is any way contradictory to URCA’s regulatory objectives, principles and/or obligations.

Anyone wishing to comment may send their written views to URCA or participate in the meetings.

There will also be meetings in Marsh Harbour, Abaco, ( September 18); Georgetown, Exuma; Deadman’s

Cay Long Island (September 25); Freeport, Grand Bahama (October 2) and another meeting in Nassau on September 25.