— says approval was granted for subsea cable

THE Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT) has expressed concerns regarding E-Networks laying a subsea cable which it claims the company did not have approval to do and could jeopardise its services.

GTT in a press release stated that it is very concerned that E-Networks is laying the subsea fibre allegedly with complete disregard for necessary approvals and international protocols.
In 2018, the Ministry of Public Telecommunications stated definitively that E-Networks did not have permission to land or lay a subsea cable.

“To date, as far as it is publicly known, such a license has not been issued by the Ministry of Public Telecommunications, and by extension, the Government of Guyana. The EPA has also stated that E-Networks is conducting its activities, landing the cable, using an expired environmental and construction permit,” GTT Chief Executive officer Justin Nedd claimed.

He continued: “We have attempted to reach out to E-Networks to facilitate the construction in accordance with international protocols, as this reckless activity and disregard for established protocol threatens the security and integrity of our SGSCS subsea cable. As the only reliable method of international connectivity into Guyana, any damage to the SGSCS will threaten the Internet connectivity of the entire country.”

Nedd said he hopes that the observance of sound rule of law, as well as acceptable and ethical business practices will be upheld within the country’s telecommunications sector by both existing and potential players in the market.

“GTT remains committed to continuing to build resilient connectivity to improve life experiences in Guyana and by unlocking innovation. GT&T will not overlook any action that can disrupt service delivery to its customers,” the CEO stated.

Meanwhile, E-Networks in a response called the allegation false and libelous.
“As a point of fact, E-Networks has never been without a valid EPA permit in relation to our project from May 1, 2018 to present. We are also in possession of all necessary approvals in relation to this project for its intended purpose. In regard to the international protocols Mr. Nedd claims that we are breaching. He is well aware of the previous communications with GTT in relation to this project, in which we have proven that we are operating well within these recommendations,” E-Networks said in a statement.

Moreover, E-Networks stated “we have had to enlighten GTT through the exchange of several pieces of correspondence of the correct and proper interpretation of the international protocols and standards. E-Networks wishes to state in no uncertain terms that we find GTT’s statement to be intentionally erroneous, deliberately misleading and libelous. We will take any and all necessary measures, including legal action against GTT and Mr Nedd, in order to protect our good name.”