The new President of the Canadian Radio, Television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC), Vicky Eatrides, has made bringing prices down for internet and mobile phone services a priority.
“What I really wish is that Canadians can answer the question, ‘What has the CRTC done for me?'” he told Globe & Mail.
Last May, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada released draft guidelines for the CRTC with the goal of creating a more effective regulatory framework.
A final draft is expected in the coming weeks, but Vicky Eatrides says the CRTC already has that vision in mind.
She does point out that she has a plan to cut cell phone and internet costs, although she hasn’t revealed the details of the strategy. Vicky Eatrides also has ideas on how to speed up the Commission’s decision-making process. In particular, it wants to improve efficiency by reducing the administrative burden.
“I see competition as a key factor in pricing, choice and innovation,” she said. We will keep moving forward. We also need to keep a balance by making sure we invest in innovation.”
However, it will take time to achieve its goals.
“There is much to do. You can move mountains, but not all at the same time.