Mobile phone operators waiting for final approval to launch fixed-line services

Polkomtel and Polska Telefonia Cyfrowa (PTC) want to extend their product range to offer fixed-line telephony. They are both waiting for permission from the Office of Telecommunications and Post Regulation (URTiP). "Before receiving the green light, we have to consult with the Ministry of Interior and Administration and the State Security Office (UOP). That is why the procedure is so slow," says Jacek Strzalkowski, a spokesperson for URTiP. According to representatives of Polkomtel, even if their company does not receive permission they will offer convergent services, integrating a variety of services. According to the telecommunications law, mobile operators do not have to apply for permission to render local fixed-line services. "We have had the possibility to offer fixed-line services in the nine biggest cities for a few months, but still need to sort out some technical issues before the lines become operational," explains Leszek Hajnowski, a Polkomtel manager. The president of PTC Boguslaw Kulakowski, says that his company is unwilling to recourse to half measures and is waiting patiently for permission to offer a national service. (Puls Biznesu, p. 3) P.W.