*Pages 1--1 from Microsoft Word - 51014.doc* STATEMENT OF CHAIRMAN KEVIN J. MARTIN Re: Service Rules for Advanced Wireless Services in the 1.7 GHz and 2.1 GHz Bands, Order on Reconsideration (WT Docket No. 02- 353), FCC 05- 149 By our actions in this order, the Commission takes another step forward in our continuing efforts to make spectrum available for wireless broadband services. Adoption of this order will allow the Commission to move forward expeditiously to auction 90 MHz of wireless spectrum. Making this large swath of spectrum available will enable carriers to provide a wide range of new and better services, including in rural areas. The revised band plan also incorporates a recommendation of the Commission’s Advisory Committee on Diversity to identify spectrum covering small geographic areas, which promotes participation by minorities in emerging technology sectors. Perhaps most importantly, I expect much of this spectrum to be used for new wireless broadband services. Adoption of this item thus brings us closer to achieving our goal of universal, affordable broadband access. 1