New York Competition Law Guru Joins Econet

4 September 2006

New York Competition Law Guru Joins Econet

David G. Rauscher, a New York telecommunications lawyer known as much for his combative style as for his substantive legal skills and intimate understanding of telecommunications issues, has joined the Econet team in New Zealand.

"Econet is delighted to have such an experienced, monopoly-busting warrior join the New Zealand team," said Econet Wireless New Zealand Chief Project Director, Tex Edwards.

"The Econet executive is a passionate team of telecommunications freedom fighters. We are constantly flattered with approaches from quality people who want to join our campaign to break up Vodafone's monopoly. To now have David Rauscher on board is fantastic," said Edwards. "We've been impressed by David's passion and commitment to restoring a competitive balance to the New Zealand market."

On his arrival to New Zealand, Mr Rauscher observed, "a beautiful country, but the regulatory environment is just plain bizarre. In my conversations with Kiwis over the past few months, it's been clear that New Zealand is desperate for real network competition in the mobile market.

"Only occasionally does one find a position where there is the opportunity to make a really big difference. New Zealand presents a great challenge, and there is so much yet to be achieved.

"Hopefully my experience in dealing with the Federal Communications Commission in Washington during America's efforts to introduce competition will help me with my work with the Commerce Commission in Wellington, and my experience negotiating with New York City attorneys will help in my dealings with Vodafone and Telecom.

"I love the fact Econet is the underdog. I love the fact Maori are a major shareholder in Econet. I want to build on the momentum for change the Econet team has created and move the company to a new level."

Rauscher says he is stunned by the low usage of mobile in New Zealand. In the U.S., average cell phone use is around 450 minutes per month, compared to 80 minutes in New Zealand.

"I'm a big fan of Kiwis. They deserve the cost, investment and innovation benefits open competition," concludes Rauscher.

ENDS

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