Canadian Telecom Review Submissions

In the 2005 budget, the federal government announced the creation of a special panel to review Canada's telecommunications policy. A special consultation website was set up and the public was invited to send submissions.

Many options are being explored to enhance competition, to spread universal service, and to encourage enhanced technology deployment and investment, especially broadband.

The panel is looking into 3 areas:

• Regulation: how to protect consumers and promote technological breakthroughs from advanced telecommunications networks and services
• Access: how to ensure "an appropriate level" of access to advanced telecom services
• Information and communications technologies: how to promote the development and expanded use of converging services across the economy

The deadline was September 15 and there were hundreds of submissions. They can be browsed on the panel website.