Telecom regulator declares broadband internet a basic service, like telephone
GATINEAU, Que. — Canada’s telecom regulator has declared broadband internet access a basic service across the country, just like current landline telephone service.
But making full access to ultra-high-speed services a reality could cost tens of billions of dollars, and the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission said Wednesday that achieving the goal will take a coordinated effort by it, businesses and governments.
The aim is to ensure service providers (ISPs) offer internet services nationwide at speeds of at least 50 megabits per second for downloading data, and 10 Mbps for uploads, the CRTC said in announcing the new targets.
Currently, about 82 per cent of households and businesses receive that level of service. The CRTC wants that increased to 90 per cent by 2021 and to 100 per cent within 10 to 15 years.