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Greater Dialogue On European 3G Roll-Out Called For

27th September, 2004

Europe : GSM Europe, the European interest group of global wireless trade body the GSM Association, is calling for greater dialogue between the mobile industry, all levels of government and the general public on the eve of a major conference that will focus on the social and environmental impact of 3G roll-out across Europe.

Organised in partnership with the European Commission and the Mobile Manufacturers Forum (MMF), the two-day event will take place at the Residence Palace in the Brussels International Press Centre over September 23 and 24. It brings together representatives of both the European Commission and European Parliament, wireless industry players, key scientists and the regulatory and Government community for open discussion of key public policy issues such as health concerns, the environment, and safety that are impeding the roll-out of 3G mobile services.

The Seminar will also feature senior industry commentators, and in an important new move, representatives from public activist groups concerned with possible health issues related to wireless technology.

Kaisu Karvala, GSM Europe Chair, is keen to find a solution to the obstacles encountered by operators in delivering advanced mobile services to users, while also taking care to allay public concerns over the environmental impact of 3G roll-out.

"More than 80% of EU citizens now have a mobile phone and GSM has generated profound social and economic benefits. 3G will build on these benefits,” said Kaisu Karvala, GSM Europe Chair. “In discussing the legitimate concerns of some, we need to ensure we do not overlook the undeniable benefits that mobile communications has delivered to society as a whole."

The seminar will be opened by a keynote speech on the theme of co-operation in the fields of human health, environment and risk communication by Mr J?n Figel’, Member of the European Commission. The agenda for the seminar’s first day will include a debate in which representatives from Austria, Hungary, Italy and Switzerland will discuss the use of Government regulations as an effective means to ease public concerns. The conference will then move to address the public health priorities that require further research, asking what remains to be done after more than €50 million has been committed by the Commission, Member States and industry to health-related research in Europe. The conference will also hear presentations on future wireless technologies and the potential applications of 3G in healthcare.

On day two, delegates will debate the most effective methods with which to communicate with the public, which will include for reference a case study of how the British Press typically handles health issues. The conference will also address politicians’ expectations of the wireless industry, and review the latest research on the effects of RF wireless technology on human physiology.

Commenting on the issues planned for discussion, Kaisu said, “As much as operators are committed to providing the highest quality of 3G coverage and services to our customers, we should not lose sight of the fact that our efforts raise questions and concerns among the general public. This forum gives the wireless industry an opportunity to improve its understanding of the information and communication needs of the authorities and the public.”

The Seminar will be the second gathering of its kind organised by GSM Europe, the European Commission and the MMF, and has attracted over 200 experts from all over the world and from every sector of the global wireless community.

“GSM Europe is excited to once again be working closely with the European Commission and the MMF, and we will look forward to contributing fully to an informed debate involving all stakeholders,” commented Kaisu. “GSME is committed to promoting greater engagement between operators, all layers of government and the public as we strive to make 3G services accessible to all citizens of the EU.”

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