The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission released a statement saying that “broadband access internet service is now considered a basic telecommunications service for all Canadians.” It also set new speed targets and created a fund that will invest up to $750 million (Canadian) over and above existing government programs.
The Commission set a speed target of 50 Mbps download/10 Mbps upload for fixed broadband internet access services, as well as an unlimited data option for fixed broadband access services. It also says the latest mobile wireless technology must be available not only in homes and businesses, but also along major Canadian roads. The new fund was set up to support projects in areas that do not meet these targets.
While most Canadians are well served, according to the CRTC, many rural and remote communities do not have access to broadband internet access services that are comparable to those offered in larger metros. The Commission reports that in 2015, 82 percent of Canadians had access to speeds of 50 Mbps download/10 Mbps upload for fixed broadband.
The fund will reportedly will make up to $750 million available over the first five years, and will “be managed at arm’s length by a third party,” according to a statement.
CRTC also revealed some rules for accessibility and tools for consumers. Within six months, service providers “should ensure that contracts are written in clear and plain language, and should make available online tools so consumers can easily manage their data usage,” the statement continues. “Also, all wireless service providers will have to offer and publicize, no later than six months from today, mobile service packages that meet the needs of Canadians with disabilities.”
The Commission also is submitting a report to the Innovation Agenda, as encouraged by the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Economic Development Canada, on the availability and adoption of broadband internet services in Canada. It is said to include information on access gaps resulting from infrastructure, affordability, digital literacy issues, and barriers to connectivity in Indigenous communities.
“Access to broadband internet service is vital and a basic telecommunication service all Canadians are entitled to receive. Canadians who participated during our process told us that no matter where they live or work in our vast country — whether in a small town in northern Yukon, a rural area of eastern Quebec, or in downtown Calgary — everyone needs access to high-quality fixed internet and mobile services. We are doing our part to bring broadband services to rural and remote communities,” CRTC Chairman and CEO Jean-Pierre Blais says.
He notes it’s an issue that can’t be solved by the CRTC alone. “All players in the Canadian communications landscape will need to do their part to ensure Canadians have access to the services they need to participate in the digital economy,” Blais adds. “All levels of government must address gaps in digital literacy. Affordability concerns are best addressed by the emergence of a dynamic market place where service providers compete on price for telecommunication services, in conjunction with social responsibility programs of telecommunications carriers, and different levels of government.”
