This is a policy/legislation document that I think may turn into a "broadband access" bill of some sort.
Broadband (high speed internet/IP networks) are an ever increasing part of our lives. With IP technologies such as VoIP (voice), IPTV (video), and the web being used more and more in our daily lives it becomes critical that Canada has a strong national broadband policy.
What is broadband?[]
For the purposes of this document, broadband is defined as an always on connection capable of delivering in excess of 5 megabits per second of capacity downstream and 1.5 megabits of capacity upstreams. Broadband can be delivered by many means, wireless, DSL, cable, fiber optics and satellite. Satellite provided connections may be considered broadband if they can transfer in excess of 256 kilobits per second in both directions.
Should broadband be subsidized?[]
We believe that access to broadband is a right not a luxury and as such, affordable broadband should be accessable by every Canadian regardless of where they live. If taxpayers dollars are required to provide such services, government loans to private providers are acceptable. If a private company will not service an region due to cost considerations, it is acceptable to provide a direct funding to a co-op or non-profit group that provides service.
Network Neutrality[]
Any internet service provider (ISP) shall not interfere with any packet as to provide a lesser quality of service for the packet. In addition, the internet service provider shall not block any competing provider's service such as voice over IP, email and instant messaging (IM).
Current competition in Canada[]
The competition between the major broadband Internet providers in Canada has recently caused frequent increases in the available bandwidth provided to home users. As of January 2006, a standard broadband Internet package provides 3.0 Mbit/s downstream and 800 kbit/s upstream rates for both cable- and DSL-based services. Some residential service providers (such as Cogeco or Rogers or Shaw) offer speeds of 5 Mbit/s or higher. In western Canada some service providers now offer speeds of up to 7 Mbit/s.
External Links[]
Wikipedia definition of broadband internet access
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