Government begins review of telecommunications law
By Adnews Staff
The Government of Canada has begun a review of the Telecommunications Act, the Broadcasting Act and the Radiocommunication Act. According to the government, the review is intended to update these laws to reflect changes to the ways in which consumers access media and communications services. The review is intended to take into the priorities of consumers, businesses, artists and broadcasters. It will also seek ways to promote competition and affordability for internet and mobile wireless services.
The review panel will be chaired by Janet Yale, president and CEO of The Arthritis Society. She is also a former executive vice president at Telus, former president and CEO of the Canadian Cable Television Association, director general at the CRTC and general counsel at the Consumers Association of Canada.
"We want to ensure that our laws keep pace with Canada's rapidly evolving telecommunications landscape so that Canadians can continue to receive world-class services," said Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development. "The review will consider whether changes need to be made to support affordability and availability. The panel will also examine how to build on Canada's existing net neutrality framework to ensure that all Canadians continue to benefit from an open and innovative internet."