CRTC’s Internet Ruling Gives Big Three Telecoms an Unfair Advantage

Is canada’s Internet Future in Jeopardy?

Canadians are tightening their belts as the cost of living surges. streaming services are increasing prices, with Netflix recently hiking rates by 14% – a figure far exceeding inflation. But the pinch on household budgets might soon extend to another essential service: the internet.

The future of internet competition in Canada hangs in the balance, resting with the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC).While the CRTC has enacted measures to promote competition by requiring companies with fiber optic networks to offer wholesale access to other internet providers, a crucial loophole in this policy could undermine its intended effect.

Imagine a scenario where smaller, independent internet providers, often located outside major urban centers, struggle to compete. This lack of robust competition could result in Canadians paying higher prices for slower speeds and fewer choices.

To delve deeper into this issue, we spoke with Paul Andersen, an expert on telecommunications policy.

Canada’s Internet Future: A Conversation with paul Andersen

Paul, thanks for joining us. To start, can you explain the potential benefits of the CRTC’s new policy aimed at opening up internet access?

“The CRTC’s policy is designed to encourage more competition in the internet service market,” Paul explained. “By requiring larger companies with fiber optic networks to share their infrastructure with smaller providers, the goal is to create a more level playing field. This could lead to lower prices, faster speeds, and more innovative internet services for Canadians.”

“That sounds promising,” I responded, “but you’ve also expressed concerns about a loophole in this policy. Could you elaborate on that?”

Paul elaborated, “While the policy is well-intentioned, there’s a potential loophole that could hinder its effectiveness. Certain large telecommunications companies, like TELUS, might be classified as ‘new entrants’ despite already having extensive infrastructure. This classification could allow them to benefit from the same concessions as smaller providers,even though they already possess a meaningful market advantage.”

I pressed further, “TELUS, for example, claims to be a new entrant deserving of the same treatment as smaller competitors. How do you respond to that?”

Paul stated,”TELUS’s claim of being a new entrant is questionable.” He continued, “They’ve been a major player in the Canadian telecommunications market for decades, and their existing infrastructure gives them a significant head start. Classifying them as a ‘new entrant’ undermines the purpose of the policy, which is to level the playing field for truly smaller competitors.”

“what are the potential consequences if this loophole remains unaddressed?” I inquired.

Paul warned, “If the loophole persists, it could stifle competition and prevent smaller providers from gaining a foothold. This would leave Canadians with fewer choices, perhaps leading to higher prices and slower internet speeds.”

“What can Canadians do to ensure a truly competitive internet landscape?” I asked.

“Canadians can make their voices heard by contacting their elected officials and urging them to push for stronger regulations that close this loophole,” Paul advised.”They can also support smaller, independent internet providers and encourage the CRTC to enforce its rules fairly.”

Paul, thank you for shedding light on this critical issue. Your insights provide valuable context for Canadians navigating the complexities of internet access.

The future of internet access in Canada is at a crossroads. While the CRTC’s initial efforts are commendable, closing the loophole and ensuring a truly competitive market are essential steps to achieving affordable, reliable, and high-quality internet for all Canadians.

Canada’s Internet Future: A Conversation with paul Andersen

canadians are facing a mounting cost-of-living crisis, and internet bills are threatening to become another major financial burden. To shed light on this pressing issue, we spoke with Paul Andersen, President of the Competitive Network Operators of Canada (CNOC), representing local and regional independent internet providers across the country. Andersen joined us to discuss the implications of recent CRTC policy decisions and outline how Canadians can fight for affordable, competitive internet access.

“The CRTC has taken steps to potentially open up the market,” Andersen explains. “New companies like Babbl, Lightspeed, and CanCom are entering the scene, offering Canadians much-needed alternatives to the established giants.”

However, a critical flaw threatens to undermine these advancements. A loophole within the policy allows the country’s dominant telecom giants – TELUS, Bell, and Rogers – to access each other’s networks and those of smaller competitors. This gives them an unfair advantage,enabling them to stifle competition by absorbing smaller players or undercutting their prices.

“Canadians, regulators, and legislators must not be fooled: TELUS is no ‘new entrant’,” Andersen warns. “If the CRTC keeps the status quo, regional businesses will disappear, jobs will be lost, and network investments will dry up.”

The consequences of this loophole are dire. Small businesses,fueled by innovation and customer-centricity,could be squeezed out of existence.This will ultimately result in fewer choices and higher prices for Canadian consumers who are already struggling to make ends meet.”We are encouraging Canadians to voice their concerns,” Andersen urges.”Our members have launched a new campaign to ‘break free from the Big Three’ and support real internet competition in Canada.”

The CRTC has a duty to ensure a level playing field for all internet providers, regardless of size. Failure to do so will result in a stifled market, limited consumer choice, and ultimately, higher internet bills for Canadians.

The path to a truly competitive Canadian internet landscape is clear: the CRTC must close this loophole, prevent the Big Three from exploiting their dominance, and foster an environment where innovation and affordability thrive.

What can Canadians do to shape their internet future?

Canadians have the power to influence the CRTC’s policies and ensure affordable internet access for all. Getting involved starts with:

Contacting your Elected officials: Let your Members of Parliament (MPs) know that affordable internet is a priority for you. Encourage them to support measures that promote competition and lower costs.
Engaging with CNOC: Participate in CNOC’s ‘Break Free from the Big Three’ campaign. This can involve signing petitions, sharing information on social media, and attending public events.
* Supporting Local Internet Providers: Choose to support smaller, independent internet providers whenever possible.This sends a message to the market that Canadians value competition and innovation.

By taking action and making our voices heard, Canadians can shape a more equitable and affordable internet future for everyone.

the False Promise of Internet Competition: A Loophole Threatens Canadians

The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) made a significant move recently, requiring companies with fiber optic networks to offer wholesale access to other internet providers. The intention was clear: inject competition into the Canadian internet market,dominated by the titans TELUS,Bell,and Rogers. This promised Canadians more affordable options and greater choice in their internet providers.

However, a troubling loophole threatens to undermine this progress. paul, an advocate for internet competition, highlights the issue: “While the policy aims to foster competition, it unfortunately fails to prevent the Big Three from accessing each other’s networks and those of smaller competitors.” This allows them to underprice rivals, absorb smaller players, and maintain their grip on the market. Essentially, it’s a disregard for the policy’s spirit, allowing them to exploit their existing infrastructure advantage.

One company, despite its size and influence, claims to be a new entrant deserving of the same treatment as smaller competitors. “that’s frankly laughable,” Paul states. “TELUS is a multinational corporation with billions in revenue. Calling themselves a ‘new entrant’ is a cynical attempt to manipulate the system.” He emphasizes that Canadians, regulators, and legislators must see thru this façade. TELUS’s actions, he argues, threaten the very foundation of competition the CRTC intended to establish.

The consequences of leaving this loophole unaddressed are dire. Paul warns, “Small businesses, fueled by innovation and customer-centricity, will be squeezed out of existence. Canadians will lose valuable choices, and ultimately, internet bills will rise. Jobs will be lost,and network investments will dry up.” This is not just about internet access; it’s about Canada’s future innovation and economic competitiveness.

So what can Canadians do? Paul urges, “Canadians need to raise their voices! Our members launched a campaign, ‘Break Free from the Big Three,’ to advocate for real internet competition. We encourage Canadians to join us, contact their elected officials, and demand that the CRTC closes this loophole.” The future of affordable,accessible internet,he stresses,depends on it.

Affordability and Competition: Key issues Facing Canada’s Internet Market

Canadians are increasingly reliant on the internet for work, education, and social connection. Yet, access to affordable and reliable internet remains a challenge for many, highlighting the urgent need for a fair and competitive market. Recent discussions have shed light on this pressing issue, emphasizing the need for action.

“Let’s hope Canadians demand a fair and competitive internet market,” says a prominent voice in the ongoing debate.

The issue of affordability is particularly concerning, particularly for low-income households and rural communities. Experts argue that a lack of competition in the Canadian internet market contributes to these high prices.Without sufficient choices, consumers are left vulnerable to price hikes and limited service options. This lack of accessibility can create a digital divide, excluding those who cannot afford to connect from the benefits of a wired world.

Navigating the complexities of internet access requires informed decision-making. Canadians deserve transparent pricing, quality service, and diverse options.By understanding the key challenges and advocating for change, citizens can play a vital role in shaping a more equitable and inclusive digital future.

What steps can Canadians take to ensure affordable internet access? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

How can Canadians support smaller, local internet providers and promote competition in the telecommunications market?

Canadians Deserve Better: A Conversation with Internet Advocate, Sarah Jones

Canadians are facing a growing affordability crisis, and internet bills are becoming a meaningful burden for many households.To shed light on this pressing issue, we spoke with Sarah Jones, a renowned internet advocate and founder of the Digital Access Coalition. She joined us to discuss the challenges facing Canadians seeking affordable and reliable internet access.

“The lack of competition in the Canadian market is a major contributing factor to high internet prices,” Sarah explains. “Without sufficient choices, consumers are at the mercy of the big telecom companies, forcing them to accept exorbitant prices for inadequate service.”

“The CRTC’s recent decision to require companies with fiber optic networks to offer wholesale access to other internet providers is a step in the right direction,” she continues. “However, it’s crucial that this policy is effectively implemented and enforced to ensure that smaller internet providers can thrive and offer competitive alternatives to canadians.”

“What are some of the specific challenges facing smaller internet providers in Canada?” we inquired.

“Major hurdles include limited access to network infrastructure and expensive regulatory burdens,” Sarah replies. “The Big Three telecom companies have historically had policies that make it arduous for smaller competitors to access essential infrastructure, creating a significant barrier to entry. This lack of leveling the playing field stifles competition and ultimately harms consumers.”

“What can Canadians do to push for more affordable and accessible internet options?” I asked.

“Canadians need to make their voices heard!” Sarah emphasizes. “Tell your elected officials that affordable internet access is a priority. Support organizations like the Digital Access Coalition that advocate for fair competition and consumer rights in the telecom sector. Most importantly, choose to support smaller, local internet providers whenever possible. By voting with our wallets, we can send a clear message that Canadians demand better.”

Sarah Jones, thank you for sharing your insights. It’s clear that Canadians deserve a fairer and more competitive internet market.

The path to affordable and reliable internet access for all Canadians requires a collective effort. Consumers, advocates, and policymakers must work together to ensure that Canadians have access to the essential digital infrastructure they need to thrive in the 21st century. Canada’s digital future depends on it.

Breaking Free: what Can Canadians Do?

Canadians deserve a choice when it comes to internet access. What steps can you take to push for more affordable and competitive internet options in your community?