Your idea: Open-access Fiber-optic Infrastructure
Open-access Fiber-optic Infrastructure
By Ron Waller
A recent Harvard study harshly criticized Canadian broadband for being too slow and expensive. Although some may be inclined to believe that the American free-market system provides the best access, this is also not the case. One of the strongest criticisms leveled at Canada is actually for our “regulatory hesitation and abstention.”
The problem with North American broadband is that we have focused on the “inter-modal” system, where the only competition comes from cable and phone “duopolies” that carve out territory and compete among themselves.
The European and Asian countries, that offer the best and cheapest broadband, have adopted the “open-access” model, where competing broadband providers share communications infrastructure.
The next generation of broadband will be fiber optic. If we continue with the same failed “inter-modal” system, by allowing private companies to build and own fiber-optic infrastructure to create a “triopoly”, this will soon turn into a monopoly as fiber-optic connections will make phone and cable virtually obsolete.
The best solution is to bring in strong, big-government regulations based on the successful “open-access” model. Not only do “open-access” regulations fix the monopoly-related problems inherent in the system and maximize competition, they will also allow the government to provide access to rural areas that the free market would neglect for being unprofitable.
“Open-access” fiber-optic infrastructure will not only bring blazing internet speeds and countless HD TV channels into the average person’s home at an affordable rate, it is also great for business. According to the CBC, “the study recognized broadband as a key enabler of economic growth that can … reduce infrastructure costs for businesses.”
Moving forward on “open-access” fiber-optics is, by far, the smartest move the Canadian government could make, but it won’t be easy. There will be, no doubt, fierce opposition from free-market ideologues who want to capitalize on the current high-profit system. But the fact is centrist moderation is not about choosing half-measures. It’s about taking bold action based on well-informed, well-thought-out, practical ideas.
This is one of the most crucial things we must do to encourage the RIM of tommorow. Canada has so much potential but is seriously lacking in infrastructure.
These monopolies built this system with their own cash. It s not like we can take it away from them with out compensation.
If Canada plans on staying in the game as a knowledge-based economy, it is imperative that we start investing in infrastructure.
Jeremy,
Bell Canada was actually given most of the infrastructure through the CANARIE project.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CANARIE in 1997.
What Mr Waller is suggesting is not taking anything away from anyone. But just as the CANARIE project built the foundation of the current Internet infrastructure (for DSL). It is that the next generation of Fiber to the Home Network must be completely open. Unlike the current system where Bell Canada treats its own subscribers with preferential treatment over the subscribers of other DSL providers.
Complete, unfettered and open access to the world’s data can serve as the “great equalizer” that can potentially help lift people out of poverty, not just in Canada, but around the world. Not only do I subscribe to the notion of “open access” but I also strongly subscribe to “fair access”. Right now, the broadcasters and ISP’s are in a sort of collusion that blocks Canadians’ access to certain programming in order to protect their distribution rights. Open and FAIR access will prevent this monopolistic, top down, self-interested behaviour and allow all Canadians unhindered access to any programming or service.
This is a bold and excellent idea. Too bad you were not chosen to present this idea at the conference. We need to democratize our infrastructure through open access. This will unleash creativity and entrepreneurialism. Open-access would put Canada on the cutting edge with Europe and Asia and help us lead in the information world of tomorrow.
I completely agree with Mr. Waller. As an entrepreneur and a business owner I feel that the growth of the Canadian businesses is being choked by an extremely expensive fiber optic connection. I could not find a 10 MB connection for less than $1400 / month which is a lot of money for a small business. Does anyone know which companies own the largest fiber network in Canada.