Interesting decision by Commerce Minister Simon Power late yesterday to reinstate Telecommunications Commissioner Dr Ross Patterson. The right decision. Interesting because it’s now mid July and Dr Patterson, who is much respected in the telecommunications industry, fulfilled the conditions of his medical leave some months ago. January springs to mind. Why has it taken so long for the Minister to get round to reinstate him?
Word has it that he wasn’t going to be reinstated. Particularly since the guard changed within the Commerce Commission. Then there were a series of questions asked (by me) of Simon Power at the Commerce Select Committee estimates hearing some weeks ago probing on why he had not been reinstated. My interest came purely from the concern I was hearing in the sector about the need for a permanent telecommunications commissioner and the importance of one as experienced as Dr Patterson. I have never met him, so I have no personal interest.
So… A few unanswered questions. I’m curious to know why it took so long for the Minister to make this decision. What was the reason for the delay? Was it political? I think the Minister made the right decision, but he’s made it several months later than he should which indicates there were other issues and pressures operating behind the scenes. What were they?
It seems that the Minister only decided to move after he was put under pressure in the Commerce Select Committee and via media reports on the issue. Not a good look.
Clare, what is your solution? I don’t mean platitudes, I mean in detail that will mean something to me?
Jennifer, solution to what? Are you talking about copyright, or this post?
Yes, the copyright issue. Sorry, not sure how this jumped postings.