GATINEAU – When the CRTC released its Broadband Fund Decision in September 2018, it set out a methodology to allot the disbursement of the expected $750 million to fund broadband expansion in regions of Canada where delivering broadband connectivity isn't feasible without financial assistance.
In December 2018, the Southwestern Integrated Fibre Technology Inc. (SWIFT), filed a review and vary application with the Commission challenging elements of that methodology. As per the rules of procedures, interested parties had until 8 February to make their comments. 237 such intervenors filed comments. While most are individuals or organisations that support SWIFT’s application and plead for the Commission to allow their area to get funding to increase the speed of the internet in their area, telecom companies (and at least one consumer group) seem to agree that the method used by the CRTC, also used by ISED, is appropriate.
“SWIFT’s application raises a simple issue. SWIFT is requesting to amend the rules so that some people who can otherwise receive Internet service can obtain faster Internet service as opposed to using the resources available to extend Internet service to Canadians who would otherwise get NO Internet service. The latter are the intended beneficiaries of the Broadband Fund and they should remain the focus,” argues the Public Interest Advocacy Centre (PIAC).
Furthermore, as SaskTel says: “SWIFT has estimated that it will cost at least $2.7 billion to provide fibre solutions to their territory. It has also been suggested in other forums that the cost to build fibre solutions and fixed wireless solutions in all of Canada may be over $6.7 billion.”
The Crown corporation adds “recognizing this, the Commission was forced to choose a disbursement methodology that could promote equitable, efficient, and effective broadband construction throughout all of Canada. “
It also cites example of broadband deployment in SouthWestern Ontario, that show that the Broadband Fund is not the only option available such as Chatham-Kent, Quadro and St. Mary.
Swift has until 18 February to make its final comments.
