Canada’s CRTC declares broadband internet access a basic service

In a ruling held on December 21st, The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) has declared that broadband internet access will be considered a basic telecommunications service for all Canadians, and has set targets for basic telecoms service provision across Canada, such as: Fixed broadband internet access speeds of 50Mbps download/10Mbps upload; an unlimited data option for fixed broadband access services; the ‘latest’ mobile wireless technology available not only in homes and businesses, but also along major Canadian roads. The CRTC also announced the establishment of a fund to support projects in areas that do not meet the above targets. Applicants will be able to submit funding proposals in order to build or upgrade infrastructure for fixed and mobile broadband internet access services.