January deadline for ICASA bill

Communications minister, Dina Pule, has extended the consultation period on the ICASA Amendment Bill to 30 January 2013.

The Bill aims to clarify the powers and duties of the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA).

Communications minister, Dina Pule, has extended the consultation period on the ICASA Amendment Bill to 30 January 2013.

The proposed bill was first gazetted in November last year.

The Bill aims to clarify the powers and duties of the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) and improve its efficiency by aligning it to existing legislation.

It would also provide for the creation of a complaints commission and introduce accountability mechanisms for ICASA councilors.

The Bill also proposes ways to confirm the use of electronic communications networks and services for the purpose of electronic transactions.

The proposed bill’s memorandum explains that in the intervening period prior to the development of a comprehensive ICT sector policy, certain amendments are necessary and appropriate in relation to both the Electronic Communications Act, 2005 (“ECA”) and ICASA Act.

The memorandum also states that “the importance of an independent and impartial regulator for the communications sector cannot be overstated.”