PIAC applauds BTLR call to improve affordability, access of internet and wireless in Canada, signals caution on broadcasting

OTTAWA – The Public Interest Advocacy Centre (PIAC) today welcomed the Report of the Broadcasting and Telecommunications Legislative Review Panel (BTLR) that recommended  measures to increase access to affordable home internet and mobile wireless service in Canada.
“Canadians can now expect that government will assure they can actually receive, and afford, mobile wireless and home Internet service,” said John Lawford, Executive Director and General Counsel of PIAC. “The Report recognizes that to live in this society, you have to be connected.”
The Report also recommends changes to the Broadcasting Act to ensure continued creation of Canadian content.  While the goal of these changes is laudable, the potential impact on consumers is unknown.
“PIAC will closely monitor pricing developments and advance the consumer interest during this transition to increased regulation of online content in Canada,” Lawford added.
For more information, please contact:
John Lawford
Executive Director and General Counsel
Public Interest Advocacy Centre (PIAC)
(613) 562-4002 ×25 (office)
(613) 447-8125 (cell)
jlawford@piac.ca