Canada Must Make Broadband Infrastructure a Priority

Abstract

This article argues that just as universal access to traditional communications media, such as the post office and the telephone, is considered an essential service, so also should access to high-speed Internet, particularly in areas that currently lack the infrastructure to make this possible. This paper illustrates the need for high-speed Internet connectivity, or broadband access, in remote and rural areas of Canada. The article outlines the rationale for establishing high-speed access throughout Canada and provides an overview of infrastructure implementation barriers faced by the private and public sectors. It concludes with a discussion of the ways in which community-based networks could play a role in the strategic planning, implementation, and application of broadband infrastructure.