Seems like the CRTC needs to find a way to remain relevant. This is central planning, socialist style. I hope everyone enjoys it.
There is an ongoing confusion about what is the free market and what is corporatism/fascism. The free market provides for free competition between individuals where all transactions are voluntary and no force is used to interfere with any interactions between parties. In a corporatist/fascist environment the government uses force to interfere in nearly all aspects of the market. In fascism, corporations end up in bed with the government and the corps use that power to get what they want while the government sells the idea by using propaganda to fool people into thinking that "it's all for your own good".
When the government is in charge of setting rates for internet access this is the farthest thing in the world from a free market. What it is, is soviet style socialist central planning.
But there seems to be a strong desire to blame the free market for all woes, despite the obvious government interference in all aspects of these interactions.
What is free about having the government set the policies for internet charges?
In a free market the government wouldn't be involved at all, and the rates would be determined via competition.
Take a look at markets that are relatively more free, such as the cell phone market and the market for computer chips. Quality and features improve while prices go down over time.
When I admire my HTC Android phone I marvel at the quality and features and the amazing technology. This is the result of healthy competition.
Take a look at markets where the government is involved such as health care. Quality and choice are reduced while prices go through the roof. (and no, that's not going to change with "obamacare")
Please don't confuse markets that are highly regulated and controlled by the government with free markets. They are polar opposites.
> If it were not for the crtc, bell would never ever have shared their infrastructure with smaller companies and the free market would have delivered us a monopoly for sure.
How do you know this?
Not in Canada - same two monopoly suppliers. Means you get the iPhone 18months after the US, kindle 2 years later, still can't get skypein etc.
I'm not looking for a flamegasm here, so this is my final reply to this thread. Peace.
This is also not free-market capitalism. I'm not sure what you would call it.
When there's no actual competition and little threat of new competitors entering the market, their incentive to innovate or become more efficient is diminished. Consumers end up paying too much for mediocre goods/services.