Consultation and Proposed Decision on the review of GO plc's application for funding for the provision of universal service obligations on electronic communications services during 2021

In accordance with national law, a universal service provider in the electronic communications sector has the right to submit a claim for compensation for any unfair burden it considers to have incurred in providing part or all of the universal services.

The Malta Communications Authority (MCA) received a written request from GO plc (GO), as the universal service provider, seeking compensation for the net costs it claimed to have incurred for the provision of universal service obligations during financial year 2021. The MCA commissioned Ernst & Young Limited (EY) as an independent body to review and verify the application submitted by GO. Following EY’s review and verification exercise, it was determined that GO had incurred an element of unfair burden in providing social tariffs.

GO’s USO funding application also included the intangible benefit derived from brand enhancement through the provision of universal services. After deducting this market benefit from the overall burden incurred, the total net cost was established at €117,604. 

The consultation period shall run between 20 March 2026 and 20 April 2026.

Closing On: Monday 20th April 2026