Launches three consultations and publishes decision to streamline framework to auction unsold spectrum
OTTAWA — Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) today launched three separate consultations as the federal government looks to improve access to spectrum for broadband services in rural and remote areas through proposed changes to Canada’s spectrum policies.
Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry François-Philippe Champagne announced the consultations on the government’s plans, which include:
- A new regime for licensing unused spectrum and simplifying access to the secondary market and to more shared white space spectrum. The consultation document can be found here. The deadline for comments is October 12, 2021.
- Reintroducing and increasing deployment requirements for cellular and personal communications services bands. The document for this consultation can be found here. The comments deadline is October 4, 2021.
- Updates to the licensing and fee framework for Earth stations and space stations (satellites). The consultation document is here. Comments are due by October 4, 2021.
In addition, today ISED published a decision to streamline its framework for auctioning unsold spectrum, following a consultation earlier this year.
“Our government is working to make more spectrum available and improve access for companies that will deploy high-speed broadband services in communities across Canada, with a focus on connecting our most rural and remote communities,” said Champagne, in a press release.
“We are taking action to ensure that unused wireless spectrum, an untapped resource, is being put to use to respond to the connectivity needs of all Canadians.”
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