Better data line arrangements needed if public sector is to provide proper service

telecom | 02/12/2001 5:00 am EST

There is a myth about telecommunications in Canada and like good myths, this one is partly true. The myth that concerns me is the one that says in Canada we have available and affordable telecom services, at least compared to other industrialized jurisdictions. It is true in terms of local, wireline voice (and I note the...

Auction ends with little fanfare, incumbents walk away with majority of spectrum

telecom | 02/05/2001 5:00 am EST

The roller-coaster ride of Canada’s first-ever auction for PCS spectrum ended last Thursday with the arrival of a potential new competitor, a larger spectrum cache for three national incumbents and nearly $1.5 billion in new money for the federal government. Bell Mobility, Rogers Wireless Inc and Telus Communications Inc...

SaskTel joins chorus of companies opposing Bell’s appeal of contribution

telecom | 01/29/2001 5:00 am EST

SaskTel is taking Bell Canada to task for its attempt to reduce how much incumbents and wireless carriers will pay this year toward local phone subsidies. The two business partners are now finding themselves on opposite sides of the regulatory fence as Bell and some non-traditional allies attempt to convince the CRTC that...

Businesses in Canada uncertain about implementation of IT, new study reports

telecom | 01/29/2001 5:00 am EST

Developing e-business applications and keeping up with new technology are the two top issues for Canada’s information technology managers, a new study reports. The survey, released by Athabasca University and CIO Canada magazine, also concluded that Canadian businesses aren’t sure how successfully IT is being used,...

Broadband Task Force Names Working Groups

telecom | 01/29/2001 5:00 am EST

The National Broadband Task Force has finalized the membership of its four working groups. They will work throughout the mandate of the task force. The full complement of the task force will hold monthly meetings to coordinate the information before releasing its report in May.  Each working group has trade associations affiliated with it and has been assigned two public servants, nicknamed "Sherpas", from Industry Canada to provide assistance....

NL Short Takes

telecom | 01/29/2001 5:00 am EST

Bell Canada spurs increase in BCE bottom lineBCE Inc has released its Q4 and year-end results, with Bell Canada contributing solidly to the conglomerate’s bottom line. Bell data revenue was up 29% while subscriptions to Sympatico high speed Internet service increased to 299,000. This represents 34% of the market. Sale of Asian properties lowers BCI resultsBell Canada International reports consolidated revenues decreased...

NL People

telecom | 01/29/2001 5:00 am EST

Louis Morin has been named VP sales and marketing at QuébecTel. He is a 17-year veteran of the telecommunications industry. QuébecTel is part of Telus Corp.  John Maduri has been appointed EVP of Telus and president of business solutions. He has 14 years’ experience in communications, most recently as president of the western division of Telus Mobility.  Eftia, an OSS provider in Ottawa, has made a series of...

Toronto to decide this spring if city-owned fibre is beneficial, and potentially profitable

telecom | 01/29/2001 5:00 am EST

The City of Toronto plans to decide in late spring whether a business case exists for developing a municipal-owned dark fibre network. As the article in this  current issue reports, the public and private sectors are not seeing eye-to-eye on this issue.  Earlier this month, Steven Byrd,...

NL Editorial

telecom | 01/29/2001 5:00 am EST

The opinions expressed in this editorial are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Decima Reports. The results of two elections last November have had drastically different outcomes for the communications industry. The recycled Liberal government in Ottawa has a commitment to high tech; the retrograde Republican administration in Washington seems unaware of the new economy.  Ottawa is, of...

CRTC rules in Vancouver’s favour on rights of way, but Ledcor wins financially

telecom | 01/29/2001 5:00 am EST

The ongoing saga over public rights of way hit a critical turning point last Thursday when the CRTC ruled that Vancouver has the right to recover costs, but not as much as the municipality proposed. The Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) says it will appeal to the Federal Court on the grounds the CRTC does not have...

U.S. study on government-run telecom draws lukewarm response in Canada

telecom | 01/29/2001 5:00 am EST

A new American report says government-run telecoms distort the marketplace and should be discouraged. But Canadian commentators say the study itself is a distortion of reality. The 17-page paper, entitled Does Government Belong In The Telecom Business?, was written by Jeffrey Eisenach, the president of the Progress &...

Heavy bidding continues for Toronto licences as PCS fight tops $200 million

telecom | 01/22/2001 5:00 am EST

Intense bidding for Toronto PCS spectrum by the five remaining national players could push the final price tag for Canada’s hottest market as high as $90 million or higher as companies head into week two of the auction today. How high Toronto, as well as Vancouver and Montreal, eventually sell for could depend on new...

Wireless providers continue capex spending with more on way, survey finds

telecom | 01/22/2001 5:00 am EST

Cnadian wireless providers are increasing their capital expenditures, even though the amounts they spend are a tiny percentage of the industry outlay. A new study by IDC Canada suggests the outlook for telecom spending in this country is better than that of the United States. The report, Capital Spending Caps: Telecom...

BitFlash rounds out executive team; plans commercial rollout of technology in March

telecom | 01/22/2001 5:00 am EST

Gaphics engine developer BitFlash has hired a former VP of marketing from Corp to help move the company’s new cross-platform graphics engine from the lab to the market this March. The Ottawa software developer is finalizing its release of the Reflexis Graphics Engine, which brings desktop level graphics to wireless devices and the Internet.  ANTOINE PAQUIN JOINS AS CEO OF BITFLASHVeteran Ottawa high-tech player Antoine Paquin has joined BitFlash as CEO effective immediately. Paquin has a long track record of providing executive direction to emerging high tech companies, including headline-grabbing roles with Philsar Semiconductor and Skystone Systems. A company press release indicates...

eDispatch begins executive search following departure of president, VP head

telecom | 01/22/2001 5:00 am EST

The board of directors and other senior managers at eDispatch.com Wireless Data Inc are stepping in to fill the vacancies left by the sudden resignations of two senior executives at the company in December. The departures of president/CEO Brian Ellis and VP sales and marketing Michael Beards, within three days of each other...

Westerners lead way in cell phone access

telecom | 01/22/2001 5:00 am EST

British Columbia and Alberta lead the country in the percentage of households that have access to a cell phone, both hovering around the 60 per cent mark. It demonstrates that Western Canadians continue to adopt the wireless way of life quicker than their Eastern Canadian neighbours. According to a Decima Research Inc Express Survey, BC has taken over...

CWTA rally against CNIB proposal on N11

telecom | 01/22/2001 5:00 am EST

Canada’s national wireless lobby is urging the CRTC to turn down a proposal the Canadian National Institute of the Blind that would have mobile and local phone carriers footing the bill for a national N11 service for blind and visually impaired people. The Canadian Wireless Tele-communications Association is opposing two related applications filed by...

ROW Short Takes

telecom | 01/22/2001 5:00 am EST

U.S. firm pays $7.2 million for CSI’s vehicle tracking deviceU.S.-based InterTrak Tracking Services LLC has paid $7.2 million for Calgary-based CSI Wireless Inc’s vehicle tracking device called AssetVision(TM ) for MicroBurst(R). The order will be delivered over the next year, with shipments beginning immediately. Introduced in October 2000, AssetVision(TM ) for MicroBurst(R) can locate and monitor vehicles, either...

ROW People

telecom | 01/22/2001 5:00 am EST

John Quinn has been named marketing communications manager at SAS Institute (Canada) Inc. He will be responsible for public relations, advertising, e-marketing, direct marketing, event planning and similar activities. He was previously a marketing strategist with the company. SAS is a data warehousing software company. Stratos Global Corp has appointed Carmen Lloyd as president and CEO while naming David Oake as interim CFO. Lloyd is the former president and CEO of Canadian Marconi Co. Oake is finishing up his term as VP corporate development at Aliant Inc. Aliant, a division of BCE Inc, is the majority shareholder in Stratos. Evan Baergen has been promoted to CFO of SUMmedia.com Inc. He previously was VP emerging technologies. SUMmedia.com is a developer of web-based, mobile and wireless marketing. André Dragon has stepped down as the firm’s COO. Cedric Ritchie has been named chair of the board of the Business Development Bank of Canada. He joined the Bank of Nova Scotia as a clerk in 1945 and retired as chair and CEO 50...

Why fibre and wireless complement more than compete with each other

telecom | 01/22/2001 5:00 am EST

There is a general consensus among regulators and industry experts who believe that facilities-based competition is the best way to enable new telecom services and applications. But one of the great myths about wireless technology is that it can compete equally against fibre in terms of facilities-based...

ROW Wireless

telecom | 01/22/2001 5:00 am EST

The opinions expressed in this editorial are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Decima Reports.A review by the Federal Communications Commission of 3G spectrum is a stark reminder that Canada has little real power when it comes to deciding what spectrum bands should be assigned for new communications services.   Driven by industry demands and domestic policy considerations, Canada...

NL Short Takes

telecom | 01/15/2001 5:00 am EST

BCE names new division Bell Globemedia BCE Inc has finally come up with a name for its media company. Bell Globemedia will house the CTV television network, the Globe and Mail, Internet content provider Globe Interactive and the Sympatico portal. Telus completes Clearnet takeover processWestern telco Telus Corp has acquired all debentures for Clearnet Communications Inc, thus completing the takeover that began last...

NL People

telecom | 01/15/2001 5:00 am EST

Carmen Lloyd is the new president and CEO of Stratos Global Corp. He comes to the Aliant subsidiary from Rolls-Royce plc. Joining him at the company is interim CFO David Oake, who has worked at NewTel and in the public sector.  360networks Inc has named John Tull as its president, Asia. He has experience at Level 3 Communications Asia, WorldCom Asia Pacific, British Telecom and IBM. Craig McLennan is VP...

The CRTC should think twice about assigning N11 codes to charities

telecom | 01/15/2001 5:00 am EST

The fate of the few remaining N11 numbers is generating a lot of interest and controversy in Canada. The CRTC is in the midst of studying what it should do with its unassigned 211, 311, 811 and 511 codes. An application headed by the United Way wants 211 used as a referral service for various social and health questions....

NL Editorial

telecom | 01/15/2001 5:00 am EST

The opinions expressed in this editorial are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Decima Reports. The government’s National Broadband Task Force was introduced with all the appropriate bells and whistles, but one wonders whether it will be an effective advocate for promoting connectivity or just another glorified photo op for all concerned.  When former Industry minister John Manley...

Capital spending for telecoms looking better for Canada than U.S. — IDC report

telecom | 01/15/2001 5:00 am EST

Wall Street’s prediction of a slowdown in telecom spending south of the border may not have an immediate impact on Canadian companies, according to a new report released by IDC Canada. Making a similar forecast for the Canadian market is premature, says IDC analyst Lawrence Surtees, although he warns that raising new...

Manitoba Telecom’s move to restrict cash payments angers provincial government

telecom | 01/15/2001 5:00 am EST

Manitoba Telecom Services Inc concedes that it’s cutting back the number of outlets that accept cash payments for service, but denies it is phasing it out entirely. The provincial government isn’t so sure and wants the CRTC to monitor the situation. "We will have somewhere in Winnipeg and somewhere in Brandon...

Tobin casts wide net in choosing members for new broadband task force

telecom | 01/15/2001 5:00 am EST

Industry minister Brian Tobin has agreed to extend the deadline of the newly appointed National Broadband Task Force until the end of May, but the unwieldy number of members on the new committee could make it difficult to reach consensus on all issues. Insiders told Network Letter late last year that faced with such a tight time frame, the task force should include no more than 12 or 15 members. Any more would be "unmanageable", according to one highly placed source.  But Tobin, in one of his first acts as successor to Industry minister John Manley, decided in the end to appoint 36 members to the task force representing a broad base of sectors, including telcos, fibre...

Telecom carriers support United Way bid for 211 dialing, but not higher costs

telecom | 01/15/2001 5:00 am EST

Telecom carriers are throwing their support behind a United Way proposal to make 211 the national dialing code for social services, while giving the cold shoulder to a similar proposal by the Canadian Institute of the Blind (CNIB). The CRTC received some 20 letters by Jan. 5 in response Telecom PN 2000-151, seeking comments...

Telus appeals to federal court over changes to CRTC’s new contribution scheme

telecom | 01/15/2001 5:00 am EST

The Federal Court of Appeal is expected to rule by mid-March on an application by Telus Corp to change how contribution is collected in 2002. Telus has joined the list of people seeking modifications in the CRTC’s contribution ruling – Telecom Decision 2000-745 – which abandoned the old per-minute contribution...

Wi-LAN and Cisco join forces to overturn FCC denial of licence-exempt devices

telecom | 01/08/2001 5:00 am EST

Two familiar foes are banding together in a common battle to get OFDM technology certified by the Federal Communications Commission for use in licence-exempt devices. Wi-LAN Inc and Cisco Systems Inc of San Jose are in the midst of a legal dispute over whether the Calgary-based company has the right to impose licence fees...

Microcell continues aggressive GPRS expansion, downplays competitor’s plan

telecom | 01/08/2001 5:00 am EST

Executives at Microcell Connexions Inc say plans by competitor Rogers Wireless Communications Inc to overlay a similar network architecture doesn’t threaten its company’s aggressive expansion plans. Rajiv Pancholy, president and COO at Microcell Connexions, says they are sticking with a game plan set out early last...

Industry Canada opts for two satellite licences in 118.7 orbital slot

telecom | 01/08/2001 5:00 am EST

Canada’s satellite regulator has opted to award two licences instead of one for the orbital slot 118.7 degrees west, one for the C- and Ku-band frequencies and another for the Ka-band frequencies. Issued Dec. 13, the call for comments states that any company interested in applying for both licences must submit two separate applications.  While the initial call for expressions of interest to develop the 118.7 slot applied to only the conventional C- and Ku-band, several respondents expressed interest in developing the Ka-band frequencies as well. That interest prompted Industry Canada to issue two separate licences (RoW, Nov. 13/00). "Given the level of interest also expressed in...

CRTC agrees to referee dispute between Shaw & BCE subsidiaries over F1 capacity

telecom | 01/08/2001 5:00 am EST

The CRTC has waded into a transponder dispute over the Anik F1 satellite – a battle that could result in Star Choice Communications Inc losing several video channels on the newly launched bird. On Dec. 22, the commission released PN 2000-178 in response to a Nov. 29 Part VII application by Star Choice affiliate, Canadian...

TMI and EMS introduce new fleet device

telecom | 01/08/2001 5:00 am EST

TMI Communications, Ottawa, was won approval from the Federal Communications Commission to market a new packet data terminal to the U.S. transportation industry. The FCC recently modified TMI’s licence enabling it to exclusively offer the EMS Technologies’ PDT-100 terminal, which promises to provide significant cost savings for fleet...

Wireless industry appeals new contribution regime; seeks fairer treatment

telecom | 01/08/2001 5:00 am EST

The country’s two largest telcos, and their wireless divisions, find themselves on the same side of a battle to alter a new contribution regime that just came into effect last week. Both the Bell family of companies and Telus Corp are opposed to the new tax regime and are seeking relief from what they consider is an...

Lucent Canada enters 2001 in strong market position despite troubles in the U.S.

telecom | 01/08/2001 5:00 am EST

Lucent Technologies Canada is ringing in the New Year financially unscathed and in a better market position despite sluggish sales and a major shakeup at its U.S. parent corporation. While Lucent Technologies Inc tries to paint 2001 as a year of rebuilding and retooling, its Canadian subsidiary is preparing to capitalize on...

ROW Short Takes

telecom | 01/08/2001 5:00 am EST

Nomination deadline extended for CANARIE IWAY AwardsThe nomination deadline for the 2001 CANARIE IWAY Awards has been extended to Jan. 26 from Jan. 19. The awards honour individuals or groups/organizations that have made an outstanding contribution to the advanced Internet. The award categories are: New Technology Development, Application of Technology, Community Service, Adaptive Technologies and Public Leadership. The...

ROW People

telecom | 01/08/2001 5:00 am EST

Cell-Loc Inc has trimmed its management team to better reflect the company’s future requirements. David Howard, VP finance, is no longer with the company. James Hill, recently appointed CFO will now oversee all financial operations within the company. Wi-LAN Inc has added a COO to its management team. Sayed-Amr El-Hamamsy takes on the role effective Jan 8. He has more than 15 years experience in the high tech...

Will WAP be the death of the mobile Internet?

telecom | 01/08/2001 5:00 am EST

  A new consumer study out of the U.S. concludes that wireless application protocol doesn’t work, and users don’t want it. The wireless industry is staking much of its future on the mobile Internet, but it appears that WAP-enabled devices are not the answer, according to usability expert Jakob Neilson, a principal of the Neilsen Norman Group, which...

ROW Editorial

telecom | 01/08/2001 5:00 am EST

The opinions expressed in this editorial are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Decima Reports.Microcell Telecommunications may well be the next wireless operator to disappear from the Canadian telecom scene. It’s no secret that the company is keeping its options open, particularly if an attractive offer is put on the table by a prospective purchaser. Even Microcell’s president and CEO isn’t...

First appeal of contribution subsidy filed, others may follow in near future

telecom | 12/20/2000 5:00 am EST

Canada’s major ILECs and wireless carriers aren’t happy with the CRTC’s new contribution scheme, but they appear willing to set aside certain grievances if the commission slashes their fee payments for 2001. The companies argue that a transition period is needed to minimize the impact of a radically new subsidy regime, particularly for wireless carriers which currently pay little to offset the high cost of local phone service (NL, Dec. 4/00).  The review and vary (R&V) applications contesting parts of Decision 2000-745 wasn’t unexpected, although it was unusual to see the Bell Canada family of companies teaming up with Microcell Telecommunications Inc and Rogers Wireless Inc...

Rate increases and upgraded service granted to Ontario independent telcos

telecom | 12/20/2000 5:00 am EST

The CRTC has taken steps to lure long distance competitors into smaller Ontario markets with a Dec. 4 ruling that requires independent telcos to reduce their reliance on subsidies by charging customers higher rates. The series of decisions are designed to bring the residential rate for delivering local phone service closer...

Bell and affiliates want right to share customer information among themselves

telecom | 12/20/2000 5:00 am EST

Bell Canada and its affiliates will likely face opposition in its bid to eliminate regulations that prevent it from sharing customer information with other members of the BCE Inc corporate family. The restrictions represent one of the remaining shackles of monopoly regulation, and the CRTC must now decide whether the...

CRTC to present cabinet with annual reports on state of Canadian telecom

telecom | 12/20/2000 5:00 am EST

The CRTC is seeking input from telcos, consumer groups and other interested parties to determine how it should be monitoring the telecommunications industry. The final report will be presented to the federal cabinet next year. The study will have three phases. The commission will examine the state of competition, the...

School fibre networks can pay for themselves in 44 months, Secor study concludes

telecom | 12/20/2000 5:00 am EST

The high cost of telecom services, combined with the falling price of fibre construction, is making it possible for school boards to pay down the cost of their own fibre network in less than four years, according to a new study prepared for Industry Canada and Canarie Inc. Montreal-based Secor Inc was asked to assess the...

NL People

telecom | 12/20/2000 5:00 am EST

Siim Vanaselja is the new CFO at BCE. His former position at Bell Canada International will be assumed by Howard Hendrick. Patrick Pichette is now EVP planning and performance management at BCE. The Call-Net alumnus is currently a partner with McKinsey & Company. Bill Anderson is the new chair of BCI, taking over from Jean Monty who remains on the board.  Three new appointments have been made at BCE Emergis. George Blake is the new president of the eHealth Solutions Group. He was senior VP of Assure Health Division and president of SNS/Assure Health before joining the BCE subsidiary last year.   Jacques Malo is president of BCE Emergis Canada, while Terry Ham fills the same role for BCE Emergis USA. Malo previously worked for the e-commerce division of Quebecor. Ham, former senior VP finance industry for BCE Emergis, was the president/CEO of Newstar Technologies, a firm BCE Emergis bought two years ago. Françoise Bertrand has resigned as chair of the CRTC to join the Montreal consulting firm Secor. She will assume...

NL Short Takes

telecom | 12/20/2000 5:00 am EST

Cannect given CLEC status in Vancouver from CRTCCannect Communications Inc of Oakville ON has been granted CLEC status from the CRTC. The initial designation is good for the Vancouver area, one of 13 areas the company serves.  First in telephony, last in the Northeast conferenceReports out of Montreal say BCE is about to purchase the Canadiens hockey team and the Molson Centre arena. BCE received approval to take over...

Yukon takes steps to narrow the digital divide

telecom | 12/20/2000 5:00 am EST

The CRTC’s recent rulings on Northwestel, contribution and independent telcos each underscore the importance of ensuring that all Canadians have access to advanced and competitive communications services – regardless of where they live. Providing residents of Watson Lake YK with the same level of services as people in Vancouver requires...

NL Editorial

telecom | 12/20/2000 5:00 am EST

The opinions expressed in this editorial are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Decima Reports. Prime minister Jean Chrétien has many things to worry about in the next few weeks: selecting a cabinet, acting as senior statesman among the G7 countries, and of course, increasing funding to the CBC every time it refers to Stockwell Day as "Doris". But the impending departure of Françoise...

Industry Canada proposes licence-exempt status for vehicle radio systems

telecom | 12/11/2000 5:00 am EST

Canada is hoping to fuel a new market for short-range radar systems that attach to cars, buses and other vehicles. Industry Canada is seeking comments on a proposed new spectrum policy for licence-exempt wireless devices in the bands 46.7-46.9 GHz, 57-64 GHz and 76-77 GHz – DGTP-009-00. Comments are due Jan. 8. The...

New media incubator has considerable auction experience to help W2N’s bid

telecom | 12/11/2000 5:00 am EST

Joe Church has teamed up with a new media incubator with spectrum auction experience to bolster his company’s chances of winning frequencies in January’s PCS auction. Church, president of W2N Inc, and itemus Inc were competitors in last fall’s bidding for 24/38 GHz licences, Canada’s first ever spectrum auction....

Wireless networks need security policies

telecom | 12/11/2000 5:00 am EST

A new study reveals that a growing number of North Americans are concerned about the level of security in wireless networks (see chart). While it may not be much of an issue for personal users, the issue raises serious concerns for the business community that uses wireless networks. According to wireless service providers, "commercial websites...

RoW Short Takes

telecom | 12/11/2000 5:00 am EST

Wireless data communications to lead a PDA sales explosionAccording to market research firm, Cahners In-Stat Group, growing wireless data communications will lead to an explosion in the sales of mobile computing devices, including handheld and palmtop PCs. The new mobile computing form factors will make wireless Internet access a more common phenomenon. Due to the PDAs versatility and their affordable prices, sales of...

RoW People

telecom | 12/11/2000 5:00 am EST

Françoise Bertrand has announced her resignation as chair of the CRTC and will take a consulting position in the private sector. Bertrand had been seeking a reappointment but when the federal government wouldn’t confirm if the job was still hers, she reportedly decided to leave for the private sector. Effective February 15, she will return to Montreal to take the helm of the strategic consulting practice for the...

WSPs should fear our new subsidy rules

telecom | 12/11/2000 5:00 am EST

On November 30, the commission announced that it will replace, effective January 1, 2001, the current per-minute contribution mechanism with a revenue tax mechanism. The new regime will spread the contribution burden, currently placed solely on long distance services, over the entire telecom industry; however, in doing so, it will significantly increase the burden on wireless services. Under the new regime, all telecom service providers, with revenues greater than $10 million, will be required to pay contribution. Eligible telecom service providers, including wireless service suppliers (WSPs) and satellite service providers, will pay contribution as a set percentage of their Canadian telecom service revenues net of contribution revenues received, inter-carrier payments, terminal...

RoW Editorial

telecom | 12/11/2000 5:00 am EST

The opinions expressed in this editorial are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Decima Reports. If wireless carriers think they’re exempt from CRTC regulation, think again. The commission’s recent decision to force wireless carriers to pay into a subsidy pool for local hardwired telephony came as a stark reminder that being exempt or forborne from regulation doesn’t necessarily shelter you...

Wireless operators consider appealing CRTC’s overhaul of contribution regime

telecom | 12/11/2000 5:00 am EST

Canada’s wireless operators say they’re frustrated by recent CRTC decisions that radically increase what they pay into the contribution pool, while at the same time allowing independent telcos to raise local rates. WSPs are also upset that the new regime will begin January 1, effectively eliminating any transition...

Rogers adds GSM-GPRS flavour to network mix as it evolves to UMTS and 3G services

telecom | 12/11/2000 5:00 am EST

Rogers AT&T Wireless Inc customers will soon have more choice when buying handsets and other services following a move by the national wireless service provider to implement a GSM-GPRS architecture over its existing TDMA network. The move should also help improve Rogers’ competitive position and speed its entry into...

MDS operator Look scales back residential operations, hints at possible sale of assets

telecom | 12/11/2000 5:00 am EST

Poor market conditions and high sales costs have prompted Look Communications Inc to pull out of the single family home market and focus on higher margin accounts in apartment buildings and businesses. It’s a major blow for the company that has touted itself as a third competitor in the...

CRTC overhaul of contribution elicits mixed reactions from entrants and incumbents

telecom | 12/04/2000 5:00 am EST

The CRTC’s long-awaited decision on contribution collection is an early Christmas gift for the new entrants, a lump of coal for Bell Canada and a bit of both for Telus Inc.  Released Nov. 30, Telecom Decision 2000-745 abandons the current per-minute regime and replaces it with a revenue tax, to go into effect on Jan. 1. It has also broadened the range of services subject to such a levy. Call-Net Enterprises Inc has long been one of the most vociferous critics of the per-minute system. As expected, executives are ecstatic over the changes. "What it does is really ensure that universality and affordability will be there down the road," Jean Brazeau, senior VP regulator...

Northwestel service improvement plan approved with subsidy from other telcos

telecom | 12/04/2000 5:00 am EST

Telecom companies from southern Canada are being asked to underwrite the costs of maintaining telephony service in Canada’s far north. Telecom Decision 2000-746 opens up LD competition and provides for upgraded service for customers of Northwestel Inc. But a big part of the ruling forces other phone companies to offer...

Debate over public versus private networks erupts at Canarie conference

telecom | 12/04/2000 5:00 am EST

The growing trend towards publicly community fibre networks, and a federal research agency’s endorsement of this model, is continuing to make incumbent telecom companies more than a little anxious. Their worry is that Canarie Inc’s promotion and subsidization of municipal fibre networks will cost them some key...

Competition best way to improve high speed Internet access: CRTC vice chair

telecom | 12/04/2000 5:00 am EST

The CRTC’s vice chair of telecommunications says the commission isn’t prepared to mandate access to high-speed Internet access or quality of service standards, saying the market needs time to work through these issues on its own. The idea of regulating Internet access was recently proposed in the Toronto Star, but...

NL Short Takes

telecom | 12/04/2000 5:00 am EST

Telus rolls out ADSL across British Columbia and AlbertaTelus is investing $500 million over five years to expand its ADSL service. It plans to offer the service to 38 communities in Alberta and British Columbia.  SaskTel gets direct connect rate approval from CRTCProvincial telco SaskTel has been granted a five-cent per-minute, per-end direct connect rate by the CRTC. The commission, in Order 2000-1080, gave the Crown...

NL People

telecom | 12/04/2000 5:00 am EST

John Y.B. Chang is the founding president of Client Solutions, a new business unit in Telus. Formerly VP of the telco’s subsidiary ISM-BC, the six-year Telus veteran also becomes EVP of the parent company. The western ILEC has also named Robert McFarlane EVP and CFO. He previously served as EVP, CFO and secretary-treasurer of Clearnet, which Telus purchased this summer. Former Telus CFO and EVP finance Barry Baptie...

One step at a time–Narrowing the digital divide

telecom | 12/04/2000 5:00 am EST

Both Canada and the United States know the pains and rewards of moving from entrenched telecommunications monopolies to a highly competitive marketplace.  Developing countries now face that same challenge, as they take the first important steps to end state-owned monopolies and establish an independent national regulator. This month in Geneva,...

NL Editorial

telecom | 12/04/2000 5:00 am EST

The opinions expressed in this editorial are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Decima Reports. The majority won by the Liberal party in last month’s federal election may prove to be monumental for the telecom industry. Not only will the Grits likely support the creation of a CA*net 4 national broadband network, (NL, Nov. 20/00), on a bureaucratic level, there are indications that sweeping...

Gov’t clears way for Star Choice, ExpressVu to launch two-way Internet in 2004

telecom | 11/27/2000 7:31 pm EST

Industry Canada has taken a major step in ensuring the government’s 2004 broadband deadline is met with its decision to grant a BCE Inc subsidiary, and a company owned by Shaw Communications Inc, approval to launch the country’s first Internet satellites. Bell ExpressVu and Shaw-owned Star Choice Communications...

RoW Short Takes

telecom | 11/27/2000 5:00 am EST

Services accessed over mobile internetUsing a mobile phone or PDA to access emergency services and driving directions tops the list of services that individuals are somewhat or very interested in accessing over the mobile Internet. Receiving sports scores and trading stocks ranks at the bottom. Source: Canadian Consumer Technology Survey, PricewaterhouseCoopers, November 2000.COM DEV signs agreement worth US$40 millionThe wireless group of COM DEV International Ltd, Cambridge ON, has received a letter of intent and initial purchase orders worth more than US$43 million. Potential supply contracts from these are valued in excess of US$100 million. COM DEV Wireless will supply a major global provider of wireless networks and equipment with RF conditioning equipment for its new third generation network. Wireless group president Roger Boivin says that these agreements solidify the company’s financial plans for the next year.Wi-LAN launches legal action against unnamed companyCalgary-based Wi-LAN Inc has launched a $780 million lawsuit against...

RoW People

telecom | 11/27/2000 5:00 am EST

Charlotte Burke has been appointed VP global marketing and business development at Classwave Wireless Inc, Toronto. She brings more than 15 years of telecommunications experience to the emerging Bluetooth player with such companies as Bell Canada, Bell Mobility, Compaq Computer Corp and Sony Corp. Most recently, Burke was responsible for the development and marketing of enhanced high-speed DSL and wireless services at...

Spectrum sharing with U.S. may be difficult

telecom | 11/27/2000 5:00 am EST

Canadian spectrum regulators may find it difficult to come to some spectrum harmonization arrangements with the U.S., particularly in the 1700 MHz band. According to a recent National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) report the use of that band for future 3G services prove to be much more difficult that previously anticipated....

RoW Editorial

telecom | 11/27/2000 5:00 am EST

The opinions expressed in this editorial are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Decima Reports. It’s been over a year since the end of the 24 and 38 GHz auction, and while the process went without a hitch, there was one lingering concern. At auction’s end, the various players were required to prove Canadian ownership and control as per Industry Canada’s guidelines. While the auction itself...

Canadian telecom veteran may be backing behind U.S.-based Sprint bid for spectrum

telecom | 11/27/2000 5:00 am EST

Industry Canada has released documents disclosing Sprint Corp as the Nova Scotia-numbered company bidding for scarce mobile spectrum in January’s auction. And according to analysts, it’s likely telecom veteran Mike Kedar will provide the Canadian backing the U.S. giant will need to comply with Canada’s foreign...

SAMSys Technologies acquires Hamel Davidson, expands HR and marketing

telecom | 11/27/2000 5:00 am EST

SAMSys Technologies Inc has finalized a pivotal technology licensing and OEM agreement with UK-based BiStar Technology Ltd that it says proves the viability of its multi-protocol radio frequency identification (RFID) technology strategy. The announcement could provide impatient investors with much-welcome news on commercial deployment of the promising technology, and executives hope the agreement will help SAMSys maintain a fragile lead in the nascent industry. Under terms of the BiStar deal, SAMSys will incorporate BiStar’s over-the-air UHF tag protocols into its RFID readers which will then be manufactured on an OEM basis for BiStar. The agreement also outlines plans for...

Shaw to use satellite delivery to become Canada’s largest broadband player

telecom | 11/27/2000 5:00 am EST

Star Choice Communications Inc now has enough contracts and approvals in place to satisfy its fixed satellite service (FSS) needs for the next seven to 10 years, says president Peter Classon. Last Tuesday’s successful launch of Telesat Canada’s Anik F1, combined with signed contracts for F2 and government approval to...

Gov’t clears way for Star Choice, ExpressVu to launch two-way Internet in 2004

telecom | 11/27/2000 5:00 am EST

Industry Canada has taken a major step in ensuring the government’s 2004 broadband deadline is met with its decision to grant a BCE Inc subsidiary, and a company owned by Shaw Communications Inc, approval to launch the country’s first Internet satellites. Bell ExpressVu and Shaw-owned Star Choice Communications...

3Com launches easy-to-use wireless networking products for business market

telecom | 11/27/2000 5:00 am EST

3Com Canada has launched a series of wireless products that will allow employees to roam from office to office without losing their network connection. The wireless local area network (LAN) hubs, PC cards and USB adapters provide a seamless connection between various Bluetooth-ready devices. The result, says 3Com Canada...

Liberal election win will likely pave way for $150-million Internet network

telecom | 11/20/2000 5:00 am EST

The signs are positive that the federal Liberals, if re-elected, will allocate up to $150 million in the February budget for a new national Internet network that will extend to Europe and parts of Asia. The encouraging words from Industry Canada and even the Prime Minister’s Office come as engineers at Canarie Inc are...

Bell Canada wins decision in equity battle

telecom | 11/20/2000 5:00 am EST

The union representing Bell Canada operators vows to continue the fight to award them pay equity. Earlier this month Federal Court Justice Daniele Tremblay-Lamer agreed with Bell Canada that the Human Rights Tribunal, which was judging the matter, was not an impartial and independent body, and as such, could not guarantee the telco a fair hearing....

An interview with Darren Entwistle–New Telus president outlines his company’s plans to compete against ‘Ma Bell’

telecom | 11/20/2000 5:00 am EST

The new president and CEO of Telus Corp says his company is preparing to make further acquisitions, but unlike its main competitor BCE Inc, the western telco has no immediate plans to move into dark fibre deployment, content ownership or residential services. Telus has been busy of late, buying...

Federal parties take passing glance at telecom topics in election campaign

telecom | 11/20/2000 5:00 am EST

Telecommunications has evolved as one of the major drivers of the Canadian economy, but it’s not an issue that seems to be preoccupying any of the candidates in this federal election. A close examination of each of the party’s political platforms reveals very little attention to telecom matters, although there are some...

American regulator introduces changes affecting international carriers

telecom | 11/20/2000 5:00 am EST

The chief American telecom regulator has reduced the tariffs on international interexchange services and revised its rules on foreign carrier affiliation. The Federal Communications Commission believes the moves will be beneficial to American and international telcos and to consumers. Under a Notice of Proposed...

Use of three-digit codes for specialized services being studied by commission

telecom | 11/20/2000 5:00 am EST

Applications from groups like the United Way and the Canadian Institute for the Blind (CNIB) for new N11 codes has prompted a CRTC review of how the remaining codes should be allocated. About half of the codes are still available, and the commission is seeking public input on how best to use them.  The United Way of Greater Toronto and Community Information Toronto have their sights set on the 211 code. Under a proposal filed by the two groups earlier this year (NL, June 19/00), callers seeking help from social service agencies would use the three-digit code for assistance.  The groups are asking that the system be set up across the country. There would be no charge for using the...

NL Short Takes

telecom | 11/20/2000 5:00 am EST

Group Telecom moves into National Capital regionToronto-based CLEC GT Group Telecom Inc is continuing its expansion with the opening of an office in downtown Ottawa. Initial investment is $20 million and 30 jobs, with an additional $10 million and 20 positions promised within the next year.  Sprint expands data services to business customersSprint Canada Inc, a division of Call-Net Enterprises Inc, is broadening its data...

NL People

telecom | 11/20/2000 5:00 am EST

James Peters has been named EVP corporate development and general counsel at Telus. A 12-year veteran of the telco, he has been involved with the merger of BC Telecom and Telus and the takeover of Clearnet Communications Inc.  At C1 Communications Bob Nice has been appointed VP financial reporting and analysis. He has worked for Deloitte & Touche, Irving Oil, Fundy Communications and has been at C1 since its...

The relevance of law in the ‘Internet Age’

telecom | 11/20/2000 5:00 am EST

Canada isn’t the only country dealing with the legal complexities of the Internet. The Federal Communications Commission in the U.S. is also examining the relevance of traditional regulatory models in an era when more and more communications services are being delivered via the Internet. FCC commissioner Michael Powell recently spoke about these...

NL Editorial

telecom | 11/20/2000 5:00 am EST

The opinions expressed in this editorial are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Decima Reports. Next Monday’s vote could influence telecommunications policy in this country, and how the CRTC carries out its mandate. Telecom is one of the main drivers of our economy, but it hasn’t become a pressing issue for any political parties in this campaign.  Issues like health care, taxes, and a...

RoW Editorial

telecom | 11/13/2000 5:00 am EST

The opinions expressed in this editorial are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Decima Reports. Was it sound spectrum management, ‘connectedness’ or effective lobbying that convinced Industry Canada to award one of North America’s remaining fixed satellite slots to the best candidate - rather than to the highest bidder? Early indications were that the department was leaning towards an auction for the orbital slot at 118.7 degrees west. Canada’s sole satellite carrier, however, vocally favoured the tried-and-true comparative selection process - a process that Telesat, with its unrivaled experience in the Canadian satellite industry, is virtually guaranteed to win. In contrast, an auction by its nature favours those with the deepest pockets and Telesat feared that some well-financed U.S. companies would bid for an orbital slot that just happens to cover the U.S., as well as Canada. Some analysts believe the government succumbed to pressure from BCE, which may be itching to sell Telesat. If...

Gov’t rules out auction for FSS slot; Telesat expected to win a comparative selection

telecom | 11/13/2000 5:00 am EST

Telesat Canada Inc officials are lauding a plan by the government to allot an important satellite slot by comparative process rather than auction. Industry Canada announced Nov. 10 that the orbital slot at 118.7° west would go to the winner with the best proposal, with a call for applications...

Gov’t rules out auction for FSS slot; Telesat expected to win a comparative selection

telecom | 11/13/2000 5:00 am EST

Telesat Canada Inc officials are lauding a plan by the government to allot an important satellite slot by comparative process rather than auction. Industry Canada announced Nov. 10 that the orbital slot at 118.7° west would go to the winner with the best proposal, with a call for applications...

Low-power TV issue raises concerns over management, scarcity of mobile spectrum

telecom | 11/13/2000 5:00 am EST

The Bell Wireless Alliance, backed by its national association, has taken the unusual tact of intervening in a CRTC broadcast hearing in an effort to stop scarce spectrum from being used to deliver community television. The BWA and the Canadian Wireless Telecommunications Association (CWTA) say a better use of this resource...

Wispra, C1 join forces to offer wireless broadband in Canada’s major markets

telecom | 11/13/2000 5:00 am EST

Joe Church has handed over the reins of his broadband wireless venture, Wispra Networks Inc, to the experienced management team at C1 Communications Inc in a proposed agreement that will see the two companies combine operations under the banner of XO Communications Canada. XO Canada is affiliated with U.S. fixed wireless...

3G in Canada will depend on how U.S. industry, FCC respond to presidential order

telecom | 11/13/2000 5:00 am EST

Major players in the Canadian mobile wireless industry are beginning to worry that America’s assignment of 3G spectrum could complicate the roll out of next generation services in this country. Last month, U.S. president Bill Clinton directed the Federal Communications Commission and other federal agencies to make 3G a...

3G in Canada will depend on how U.S. industry, FCC respond to presidential order

telecom | 11/13/2000 5:00 am EST

Major players in the Canadian mobile wireless industry are beginning to worry that America’s assignment of 3G spectrum could complicate the roll out of next generation services in this country. Last month, U.S. president Bill Clinton directed the Federal Communications Commission and other federal agencies to make 3G a...

RoW Short Takes

telecom | 11/13/2000 5:00 am EST

WaveRider selected by WirelessON for network buildsWirelessON, Mississauga ON, has chosen to use LMS 2000 gear from WaveRider Communications Inc for its network launch in Calgary and to expand service in Ontario. WirelessON will buy two systems from WaveRider to build out a network in the Foothills Industrial Park in Calgary and the Airport Corporate Centre, and in nearby industrial parks. WirelessON plans to continue its...

RoW People

telecom | 11/13/2000 5:00 am EST

Rogers AT&T Wireless Inc has added another member to its government and inter-carrier relations department, appointing Ted Woodhead as director government relations. He will be responsible for a number of regulatory and government issues and will split his time between the Toronto and Ottawa offices. For the past nine years, he was at the CRTC in a number of roles of increasing responsibility. Most recently, he was...

Looming battle over mobile spectrum

telecom | 11/13/2000 5:00 am EST

A CRTC review looking into whether to license low-power community television stations has triggered a flurry of opposition from several industry groups, including the wireless sector. The Bell Wireless Alliance (BWA) and the Canadian Wireless Telecommunications Association say the proposal would see Canada’s broadcast regulator – rather than Industry Canada – assigning scarce spectrum for broadcasting at a time when wireless carriers are hampered by a critical shortage of suitable spectrum for mobile services. It’s a compelling argument and one which could pit the CRTC’s mandate to ensure outlets for local expression with the department as the country’s primary spectrum manager.On Oct. 30, interested parties filed their responses to PN 2000-127. Below is an edited excerpt...