The activist group’s petition, entitled “Stop The Cell Phone Squeeze,” has garnered about 42,702 signatures since being launched just over a week ago. It argues that a set-aside is necessary to ensure the big three do not dominate the auction and use their relatively vast financial resources to squeeze out smaller players during the bidding.
This week, the NDP’s Mr. Angus tweeted his support for the OpenMedia.ca petition, urging Canadians to join the campaign.
“This has been one long drawn-out process without much clarity from the government, which is why having OpenMedia get out there and start beating the drum is raising awareness,” said Mr. Angus.
Rogers, BCE and Telus, meanwhile, are urging Ottawa to hold an open auction, arguing that smaller players no longer require special treatment, given current levels of competition. Telus, though, has also stated that it would also support caps that limit how much spectrum each company can purchase in the auction.
Last week, the Liberals' industry critic, Geoff Regan, posted an open letter on his website arguing the federal government should set aside a “reasonable amount” of spectrum for small and new entrants in the next auction. When asked on Wednesday whether he is endorsing the OpenMedia.ca petition, he replied: “I think our letter speaks for itself, and it is certainly very supportive of where they are coming from.”
The key concern, he said, is ensuring that Canada is on par or ahead of other countries on wireless costs, rural coverage and the roll-out of high-speed networks.
The Liberals, though, have yet to decide whether they support more relaxed rules for foreign investment, said Mr. Regan.
