STAATSKOERANT, 24 JANUARIE 2014 No. 37261 Policy Questions: How can the provisions for ministerial policy directives be improved without undermining the independence of ICASA? What changes would safeguard the regulator's independence and at the same time ensure transparent interaction between ICASA and government? What other mechanisms could be used to ensure alignment between policy and regulation? 2. Is the existing structure of ICASA appropriate to regulate the converged environment? How should ICASA be funded? 3 The provisions dealing with universal service and access are contained in all the communication laws and policies. Is the institutional arrangement between the decision makers adequate to fulfill the universal service and access provisions? 4. The provisions of the Electronic Communications Act on Universal Service Fund separate the management of the Fund from the determination of under-serviced areas. The definition of needy persons is also separated from the management of the Fund. Is this the best mechanism to promote effective use of the Fund? What measures can be developed to foster cooperation? 5. The domain names are taking on increasing importance as their commercial value rises, and as global internet and e-commerce increase. Cyber-squatting took on global proportions until regulatory regimes dealt with the registration of names by persons not entitled to them. Should South African names that are intrinsically of national importance or relevance be treated differently from corporate or brand names for reasons of public interest. 1. 93 This gazette is also available free online at www.gpwonline.co.za 97