Telecom Policy

Recognizing “effective” connectivity as an essential service
To return Canada to a leadership role in the availability and use of new communications technologies, “effective” broadband, supporting a wide range of communications applications, must become a vital part of federal policy and programs.

The AFB believes that access to 1.5 Mbps. broadband should became part of the "basic service" definition for telecommunications providers in Canada.

Developing a national broadband plan

A submission in response to: Consultation on a Policy and Technical Framework for the700 MHz Band and Aspects Related to Commercial Mobile Spectrum  (Prepared by Marita Moll for Telecommunities Canada )

Executive Summary:
Telecommunities Canada offers the following recommendations to this consultation:

That all proceeds generated by the auction be used to support broadband initiatives that would bring Canada’s communications infrastructure back up to world class standards, as well as support digital content creation and digital skills programs

That a portion of the proceeds of the auction be used to establish digital skills training centres within reach of all Canadians.

Submission to the Federal Consultation on Options for Foreign Investment Restrictions in the Telecommunications Sector

Summary: The area of sovereignty and national security needs to be addressed well before any attempt is made to change those sections of the Telecommunications Act which protect Canadian ownership of telecommunications interests. There are many models of telecommunications ownership which should be considered beyond the three offered in the consultation paper.

by Marita Moll

For some time, Canadians from all sectors have been concerned about the lack of a national digital strategy. Numerous international studies have shown that our digital infrastructure and policy environment is lagging behind that of other developed nations. This stalls our economy and negatively affects productivity. Finally, on May 10, Canadians were invited to participate in a six week online consultation. Through a special website, participants could post ideas and position papers and/or vote for ideas they supported – creating a bit of competitive energy among a somewhat limited audience already comfortable with this kind of process.

A group of researchers from the Canadian Alliance for Community Innovation and Networking (CRACIN) have submitted an intervention to the CRTC in response to CRCT notice 2010-43 -- Proceeding to review access to basic telecommunications services.