Canada needs a broadband strategy

Big Telecom giants have you trapped in some of the most expensive Internet services in the industrialized world.1

The federal government has said time and time again that the Internet should be at the centre of our cultural future.2 But far too many Canadians are forced offline because the Internet is too expensive or unavailable where they live.3 To break out of this cycle of high prices and weak access, we need a national broadband strategy.

To:
The Minister of Canadian Heritage and Multiculturalism
The Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development

“Implement a properly-funded national broadband strategy, that includes lowering costs and increasing choice by structurally separating our networks from Big Telecom’s grip.”

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As Canadians discuss how we can place the Internet at the heart of our cultural future, we must make clear that developing and implementing a national broadband strategy is the only way to ensure all Canadians can access the Internet in a way that allows them to both create and consume content.

And last December, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) did something amazing — they mandated that the Internet is a basic service.4 

Now, we need to take the next step. We need to build on the CRTC’s vision of a coordinated national broadband strategy to ensure every Canadian has access to broadband Internet services, so we can all be on a level playing field.5

A comprehensive national broadband strategy will include structural separation and open up access to Canada’s wireless networks by allowing Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs).

Think all Canadians deserve affordable access to the Internet? Add your name above now.

Sources

  1. How Canada’s Internet, wireless rates compare with international prices: Globe and Mail
  2. Liberals unveil Canadian cultural policy revamp, with help from Netflix: CBC
  3. Spotlight turns to data caps, as CRTC study reveals skyrocketing data usage along with ongoing telecom price increases: OpenMedia
  4. CRTC rules high-speed Internet a basic service, sets targets: Globe and Mail
  5. Broadband Nation – the 21st Century Imperative: The case for a national broadband action plan: CRTC

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Press: Laura Tribe | Phone: +1 (888) 441-2640 ext. 0 | Office: +1 (844) 891-5136 | [email protected]