OTTAWA – According to a Reuters report, the federal government has decided to delay its decision on whether or not Huawei technology can be used by Canadian wireless providers until after the October federal election.
The report quoted anonymous sources and cited political reasons for the potential delay. Originally, the federal government said the decision would come prior to the election.
When it comes to the Canadian wireless carriers, the decision will certainly affect Telus, Bell and SaskTel, who are waiting on the federal government’s decision before determining who their primary 5G technology vendor will be and have each successfully deployed Huawei in the past. As for other carriers, Ericsson provides the primary radio technology to Rogers, Vidéotron and Eastlink while Nokia is Freedom’s main supplier.
We asked the Office of the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness (which will be making the decision) if the report is true and were told in an email by a spokesperson: "While we cannot comment on specific companies, an examination of emerging 5G technology and the associated security and economic considerations is underway.
"The Government of Canada is carefully assessing the security challenges and potential threats involved in future 5G technology, while recognizing the potential this technology holds for Canadians.
"We will be taking appropriate decisions in due course. We will ensure that our networks are kept safe for Canadians."
