The Spectrum Management Authority (SMA) has extended the deadline for submission of the requests for proposal (RFPs) for a licence in the 700 MHz spectrum (band 13) to March 23, 2021 at 1:00 pm.

Managing director of the SMA, Dr Maria Myers-Hamilton, told JIS News that the extension was appropriate to allow more interested parties to submit their proposals.

“Once the deadline closes and all bidders have satisfied the criteria for proposals, a recommendation will then be made by the SMA to the Minister of Science, Energy and Technology Daryl Vaz, who will grant a licence for the 700 MHz band to the most eligible entity,” she said.

Dr Myers-Hamilton explained that through the RFP “we are trying to achieve increased competition in the mobile (telecommunication) space, but most importantly, bring coverage to the unserved and the underserved citizens”.

She noted that since the novel coronavirus pandemic, the demand for connectivity has increased and “this is one of the many ways the Government is seeking to supply this demand”.

The RFP and all related documents can be found at www.sma.gov.jm under the title, ‘Request for Proposal (700 MHz)’ with special attention to be placed on Amendments I and II.

Anyone seeking more information can contact the SMA at (876) 948-7800 or (876) 618-1901 or send an e-mail to rfp700frequency@sma.gov.jm.