TRA invites the industry to comment upon proposals for the use of radio spectrum in the 1785 - 1805 MHz band

This invitation is published following the receipt of a request for the deployment of a new technology requiring the assignment of spectrum in the 1785 -1805 MHz band. In the joint Ministry of Transportation, Postal, Communications & Frequency Affairs) and TRA Spectrum Policy, published in June 2006, this spectrum was not allocated for any particular use or technology.

Therefore, in accordance with the new technology approval process set out in the Policy, TRA now invites parties to comment on the deployment of this new technology in the aforementioned band.

This invitation gives stakeholders the opportunity to comment upon the proposals, including indicating any interest in, or concerns they may have about, the deployment of the proposed technology in this band. Comments should be submitted before 4.00 p.m. on 2 May 2007. The request for comments document can be viewed via TRA's website.

The General Director of TRA, Mr. Alan Horne, commented as follows on the issuing of this invitation: "In accordance with the process set out in the Spectrum Policy document, we are inviting comments on the possible deployment of a new technology in the 1785 - 1805 MHz band. The input received will assist us in coming to a final decision regarding the use and possible licensing of this spectrum, in order to further develop sustainable competition in the telecommunications market in the Kingdom. We strongly encourage all interested parties to provide their feedback on the use of this spectrum. Feedback will be valuable in our assessment leading to a decision, and will also serve as input to the Strategic Review process currently being undertaken by TRA."