The FTC indicated that, after a full review of the formal merger application filed by Digicel and Cingular Wireless on October 25 this year, it "has satisfied itself that the merger would not affect competition adversely or be detrimental to consumers or the economy, provided that, and insofar as, the benefits that the applicants claimed will result from the merger are delivered."

Chief Executive Officer of Digicel Eastern Caribbean, Kevin White, said his company is delighted with the acquisition approval, and described it as a positive development for the Barbadian marketplace and community.

"Digicel continues to bring choice to Barbados and our other Caribbean markets and we strive to deliver value to customers in every aspect of our business with competitive rates, commitment to customer service and innovative products, not to mention investments in the local workforce and community," he said.

The company says its most recent acquisition will also afford it licenses in the French West Indies - Martinique, Guadeloupe, St Martin and St Barths.

Digicel's overall investment in the region is approaching US$1 billion since its launch in the region in 2001.  It is incorporated in Bermuda and has operations in fifteen countries including Anguilla, Antigua & Barbuda, Aruba, Barbados, Bermuda, Curaçao, The Cayman Islands, Dominica, Grenada, Haiti, Jamaica, St Kitts & Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines.

http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/magazines/Business/html/20051222T200000-0500_95171_OBS_DIGICEL_OFFICIALLY_TAKES_OVER_CINGULAR_WIRELESS_IN_BARBADOS.asp