Canadians deserve affordable, high-quality wireless service with dependable coverage in town and out
News Release
Consultation launched for 600 MHz spectrum auction to support high-quality networks and business opportunities for all regions
August 4, 2017 – Ottawa – Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
The surging popularity of smart phones is fuelling increased consumer demand for quality wireless mobile services from telecommunication service providers.
In remarks delivered at the Canadian Telecom Summit in early June, the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, highlighted the Government of Canada’s commitment to encouraging the advancement of telecommunication services by focusing on the three things that matter most to Canadian families and businesses: high-quality networks, broad-reaching coverage and affordable prices. The Government is following up with the launch of a consultation on proposals to auction spectrum. The 600 MHz auction will improve wireless mobile services in both rural communities and urban centres.
Minister Bains announced the consultation today, signalling that the Government looks forward to hearing from interested Canadians, as well as telecommunication service providers and consumer groups. He added that Canadians need improved wireless service to participate in the digital economy, expand their businesses and learn new skills, which create new opportunities and build stronger communities.
Low band spectrum, such as the 600 MHz band, is well suited to carrying signals over long distances. It is also less affected by building structures than higher frequency bands, making it ideal for next-generation wireless services in both urban and rural settings.
By increasing access to spectrum for mobile services, the Government is also supporting future economic and creative breakthroughs that will position Canada as a global centre for innovation and create more jobs and business opportunities.
Quotes
“When it comes to telecommunications, Canadian consumers deserve the very best. At a time when middle-class Canadians are concerned about both the availability and the rising cost of these services, our government will encourage more private sector competition and investment in services that have become essential in a digital economy. Making this spectrum available for commercial mobile services has the potential to benefit millions of Canadians in both urban and rural areas. Canadians deserve improved coverage, service quality and affordability, as well as the economic benefits and opportunities for all regions of the country provided by increased access to wireless spectrum for mobile services.”
– The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development
Quick Facts
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Through this consultation, the Government is proposing measures to support competition and encourage investment in wireless services.
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Interested parties will have until October 2, 2017, to comment on the proposals outlined in the Government of Canada’s consultation paper.
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Canada’s networks rank second among those of G7 countries for average wireless connection speeds.
Contacts
Follow Minister Bains on Twitter: @MinisterISED
Pauline Tam
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development
343-291-2500
Media Relations
Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
343-291-1777
ic.mediarelations-mediasrelations.ic@canada.ca
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