Videotron is the proof that the four-carrier principle the former Harper government has been pushing for works: In Québec, prices are lower, “there is more innovation and there is higher customer satisfaction”, Videotron CEO Manon Brouillette said in her speech at the Telecom Summit in Toronto today.
Counterbalancing Conservative Party leader candidate Maxime Bernier’s hard words against the government demanding a phase out of the CRTC, Brouillette applauded Ottawa for its work to foster a competitive wireless landscape.
However, in the light of the forthcoming 600 MHz spectrum auction, she also outlined three tasks for Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada. First, continued support for the principle of at least four competitors in a marketplace.
Secondly, the government needs to ensure balance in spectrum access, she says, especially because the 600 MHz spectrum auction will be the last allocation of low frequencies, which offer “key advantages” for the carriers. Public airwaves need to be allocated “on an equitable basis between service providers”, she adds.
The third task Brouillette identified for the government for fostering a more competitive mobile landscape is to “remain vigilant in the marketplace”.
All the above is for the benefit of the consumer, as it promotes competitive pricing and services. This is in stark contrast to Bernier’s point of view, who is convinced that only deregulation can help lead to a really competitive marketplace.
