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CRTC's 2023 Ruling on 'Last Mile' Internet Access Faces Court Challenge

The CRTC's ruling aims to boost competition. But a court challenge and industry debate raise concerns about investment and the future of Canada's internet providers.

In this image we can see traffic poles, traffic signals, street poles, street lights, buildings and...
In this image we can see traffic poles, traffic signals, street poles, street lights, buildings and sky.

CRTC's 2023 Ruling on 'Last Mile' Internet Access Faces Court Challenge

The CRTC's 2023 ruling, granting competitors access to the 'last mile' Internet fibre connections of Bell, Rogers, and Telus in Ontario and Quebec, faces a court challenge and petitions to exclude the 'big three' providers from benefiting. Industry Minister Mélanie Joly has confirmed the government's support for the decision.

The policy has sparked debate, raising three key questions. Firstly, should access be limited to smaller, independent providers? Secondly, would granting Telus mandated access help or hinder competition? Lastly, what impact would this have on network investment if the big three are granted wholesale access to competitor networks?

In 2023, 'Dark Fiber Ontario' applied to the CRTC for such access, seeking to level the playing field. Bell and Rogers, however, argue that this could reduce their potential investment returns and capital expenditures.

The CRTC's decision, supported by the government, aims to promote competition and improve internet access. However, the court challenge and ongoing debate highlight the complex implications of this policy. The final outcome will significantly shape the Canadian telecommunications landscape.

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