EC calls on Estonian authorities to ensure separation between regulator and operator

The European Commission (EC) has confirmed that it has sent a formal request to the Estonian authorities, directing the country to ensure it is compliant with European Union (EU) rules that require a clear separation between bodies which regulate the telecoms sector and companies providing telecoms services. The EC noted in a press release on the matter that the Estonian Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications (MEAC), which manages radio frequencies, numbering resources and the provision of universal service, also controls local WiMAX provider Levira. With the Commission having opened infringement proceedings against Estonia back in September 2011 for not adhering to separation principles, this latest formal request has taken the form of a ‘reasoned opinion’ under EU infringement rules. As such, Estonia has two months to advise the EC as to measures it has taken to comply with the European regulation, and should it fail to do so the case may be referred to the EU’s Court of Justice.