The next Canadian federal election takes place in just a few days on October 21, 2019. Where do Canadian political parties stand when it comes to cell phone affordability, internet access and more?
Non-profit and consumer advocacy group OpenMedia has shared some good summaries and graphics detailing what the policies are of the Conservatives, Greens, Liberals, and NDP, regarding the following issues:
For cell phone affordability, the Conservative party did not mention any details in their election platform, while the Green Party wants to increase competition by amending CRTC regulations and also separate phone payments from other services.
The Liberals want to cut cell phone prices by 25% by working with telecoms, while also opening up the market to MVNOs and setting aside future wireless spectrum for new entrants.
The NDP is pushing for price caps on cell phone prices, while using regulation to push for unlimited data plans, accessible basic plan options and also creating more competition through MVNOs.
You can learn more and educate yourself by visiting OpenMedia’s page summarizing issues here.
According to Elections Canada on Wednesday, advance polls—which opened last week—saw 4.7 million Canadians cast their ballots in four days, a 29% increase from the 2015 federal election.
Election Day is on Monday, October 21, 2019.
