Connecting Canadians: A Look at Conservative Plans
Overview of the Press Conference
ZoomerMedia hosted a press conference today for the Canadian Association of Retired Persons (CARP). During this event, Pierre Poilievre discussed his party's strategy to provide internet access to all Canadians.
Questions on Internet Access
When I had the chance to speak, I asked Poilievre how the Conservatives woudl connect remote areas now that Starlink is no longer an option due to trade issues with the U.S. His response revealed a lack of a solid plan for reducing telecom costs.
He mentioned that “Starlink isn’t the only satellite company around,” but he did not specify what alternatives his government would pursue. There is a Canadian firm called TeleSat aiming to launch low-earth orbit satellites for internet service similar to starlink’s. However, they have faced delays and have yet to deploy any satellites. Previously, TeleSat planned more business-to-business services rather than direct consumer offerings. This approach mirrors that of another Canadian company, Galaxy Broadband.
Global Competition in Satellite Internet
Other companies worldwide are also trying to compete with Starlink but are still in early progress stages with limited satellite launches. In contrast, Starlink has been operational since 2018 and currently has over 7,000 satellites in orbit.
Incentives for Telecom Companies
Poilievre stated that his government would offer “massive incentives” for existing Canadian telecoms to expand their services into remote communities.This proposal closely resembles current Liberal initiatives aimed at connecting these areas; however, progress has been slow and there is little feedback from residents about its effectiveness after installation.
Promoting Competition Among Telecom Providers
To conclude his remarks, Poilievre emphasized support for increased competition among telecom providers so consumers can choose better options if they are dissatisfied with their current service. He argued that more competition is essential for lowering prices and improving service quality.
However, it remains unclear weather he intends this competition only in regions served by one provider or if he plans on allowing foreign companies into the market as well. If he aims at enhancing rivalry among existing providers, he may face notable challenges ahead. The CRTC already requires telecoms to share infrastructure at fair rates; however, Bell announced it would halt infrastructure investments until further decisions where made regarding these regulations.
The Conservative Party opposed Rogers' acquisition of Shaw last year when it was set up as a complete takeover; however, there was no announcement when Freedom Mobile was sold off separately—an action wich seemed beneficial by increasing mobile plan options.
Need for Clear Strategies
my question felt like a long shot since Poilievre's campaign hasn’t focused much on this issue yet it would have been helpful to hear specific strategies about connecting Canadians instead of vague political statements.While what he proposed sounds promising if implemented effectively; currently it appears somewhat underdeveloped.
The Poilievre campaign plans on releasing a detailed strategy document soon which might clarify some points raised during today’s CARP event.
Liberal Party's Position
On another note, the Liberals do not seem substantially better prepared either. Their promises from 2021 regarding internet access in remote communities appear unfulfilled as well—though some progress has occurred slowly over time without clear metrics being met before 2025 concerning smaller players entering telecommunications markets through spectrum resale opportunities—a promise absent from recent discussions during this election cycle too!
Additionally Mark Carney’s new leadership within Liberal ranks hasn’t produced any notable commitments related either towards enhancing competition or ensuring high-speed internet access across rural Canada—but we will seek answers should we get an possibility!
The federal election will take place on April 28th with advance polls closing tonight!
