Canada’s Federal Court of Appeal has asked the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission to suspend its decision to allow independent companies to sell internet services using fiber networks operated by the country’s largest providers. BCE’s request was rejected. This decision strengthens Canada’s commitment to expanding internet choice and promoting competition.
The decision comes a day after BCE Inc.’s Bell Canada announced plans to cut 4,800 jobs and cut network spending by $729.39 million by 2025. The company called for an end to the CRTC’s regulatory decision to temporarily grant independent internet providers access to India’s large fiber network. Ontario and Quebec.
The CRTC’s decision is aimed at increasing competition in Canada by allowing small independent service providers to take advantage of the extensive fiber network infrastructure of Canada’s largest network. The CRTC began a five-day public hearing on February 12 as part of its review of internet competition.
Last November, the CRTC passed an interim decision to stimulate competition among internet providers to give Canadians more choice when purchasing services. The CRTC determined that competition in internet services is decreasing, with independent competitors having 47% fewer customers than they did two years ago, particularly in Ontario and Quebec. Canadians had limited options as major internet providers acquired several small businesses. This decision aims to increase choice and promote affordable options for Canada’s 5 million households.
The CRTC’s decision does not affect Roger Communications, which uses its cable network, but Canada’s two largest telephone companies, Bell Media and Telus, must allow independent providers to use their fiber networks within six months. It means not to be.
BCE Inc., which owns Bell Media, said the decision is “already having a negative impact” on its infrastructure. The company has appealed to the Federal Cabinet and is awaiting a decision. It asked that the decision be put on hold until the appeal process is completed.
However, the CRTC’s ruling will proceed as planned and independent providers will be granted access in May. This gives Canadians the opportunity to have a wider range of options when choosing a provider, and gives smaller, less established businesses a chance to gain a foothold. BCE Inc. continues to appeal this decision.
BCE Inc. and CRTC could not be reached for comment.
