Minister Viitanen: Important to conclude the spectrum auction

Ministry of Transport and Communications
Publication date 4.9.2013 16.47
Press release

The Finnish Communications Regulatory Authority, FICORA, has informed the Ministry of Transport and Communications that it will interrupt the 800 MHz spectrum auction. FICORA will announce the resumption of the auction after reviewing the auction rules.

Ms Pia Viitanen, Minister of Housing and Communications of Finland, considers the measures taken by FICORA well-justified.

"I understand the arguments provided by FICORA. FICORA is the competent authority in the matter and the only party aware of all the phases of the auction", Viitanen says.

"In terms of communications policy, it is essential that the auction will be concluded and people in Finland will be provided with access to faster wireless connections as soon as possible", she says.

The auction for the 800 MHz spectrum began on 24 January 2013. The auction is organised by FICORA.

Further information
Mr Juhapekka Ristola, Director-General, tel. +358 400 788 530
Mr Antton Rönnholm, Special Adviser to the Minister, tel. +358 40 506 7676

Pia Viitanen