Roaming rule changes may lead to fewer network investments, say wireless incumbents (except Rogers)

By Perry Hoffman

OTTAWA - Lower wireless infrastructure investments could be the result of Industry Canada’s proposals to adopt indefinite roaming and eliminating the difference between in-territory and out-of-territory roaming, warn some mobile carriers. The cautionary notes come from Bell Canada, SaskTel and Telus Corp. in comments to the department’s consultation on changes to mandated roaming and tower site sharing. They urge Industry Canada to think hard before making these changes because they could have the unintended consequence of decreasing overall wireless network investment in both urban and rural areas across the country. SaskTel is particularly concerned that if the mandated roaming rules...