Comments Regarding Expressions of Interest Process

[Frederic Guillemaut Mailclub <fg@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Dear ICANN,

I would like to state my comments for the current Expressions of Interest 
("EOI") process, and appreciate the opportunity to make my views heard.

OVERALL SUPPORT OR NON-SUPPORT FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST
I support Expressions of Interest Knowing the number of applications in advance 
will allow Icann to solve scale issues et staff number issues.  

SUBMISSION FEE
There is discussion about the $55,000 (USD) submission fee.   I support a high 
fee to discourage gaming.    If you do not have 55 000 for a tld, it might run 
out of business soon. And that is a problem.

MANDATORY NATURE OF EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST
There is also a question about whether Expressions of Interest should be 
mandatory for those applying for a new TLD.  New TLD applicants should be 
required to submit an EOI.     There should be a reward for taking part in the 
first round. 

REFUNDS
The current EOI model will provide refunds of the submission fee only in 
extraordinary circumstances, or unless ICANN is unable to accept new TLD 
applications by a particular date.  Refunds should be allowed only in limited 
circumstances.     if icann does not move forward, one should get the fee back. 
Otherwise, you could withdraw from the round and get your money back once the 
tlds are launched. 


COMMUNICATION PERIOD
ICANN's draft EOI model contemplates a four-month communication period prior to 
accepting EOI submissions. There is no need for a communications plan. Everyone 
interested already knows.     We want to move things fast. 

PUBLICATION OF DATA
Finally, there is a question about whether data collected from EOIs should be 
made public. ICANN should publish all but some applicants who may have special 
circumstances.     Corporations should be allowaed not to publish the string 
thaey want to apply for. 
In case of a similar string, Icann should, in a confidential way, settle this 
matter between the parties. 

OTHER COMMENTS
   

Signed,
Frederic Guillemaut 
Mailclub
fg@xxxxxxxxxxx

[This comment comes via the ICANN comment form found at 
http://www.mindsandmachines.com/2010/01/let-icann-know-your-position-on-expressions-of-interest.
  This form provides brief descriptions of the issues and allows easy comment 
on the Expressions of Interest process.]