Fixed voice rules head for deregulation

In this editionPSTN interconnection to be investigatedVentia looks to datacentre businessOne NZ adds 29 sitesComCom investigates PSTN interconnectionThe Commerce Commission has confirmed it will investigate deregulating PSTN interconnection. This is the service guaranteeing customers on one provider’s fixed phone service can call customers on another provider’s network.In its final decision, the Commerce Commission ruled that it sees VoIP-based fixed voice services as part of PSTN Interconnection.This means the PSTN interconnection is no longer merely a regulatory tidy-up of rules for an era that is about to end.The final decision, released on May 6, clears the way for a formal investigation. The Commission now has to deliver a recommendation to the communications minister within 240 working days.Fixed line connections declining at paceIt says there are reasonable grounds to question whether continued regulation remains necessary. It notes a sustained decline in fixed-line usage,…