Vicky Eatrides to the Canadian Chapter of the International Institute of Communications

Vicky Eatrides updates the Canadian chapter of the International Institute of Communications on the CRTC's ongoing work to expand connectivity and empower consumers.

“The measure of a bridge: Delivering connection that lasts”

Vicky Eatrides, Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer
Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC)

Good morning, everyone, and thank you, Grant, for the warm welcome.

Before I begin, I would like to acknowledge that we are gathered on the traditional, unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishinaabeg peoples. I thank them and pay respect to their Elders.

Thank you for inviting me back. I am thrilled to see so many familiar faces and to be joined by a number of colleagues, including our Vice-Chair of Telecommunications, Adam Scott, and regional Commissioners Bram Abramson, Claire Anderson, Ellen Desmond, Joanne Levy and Nirmala Naidoo.

When we meet at this conference, we have an opportunity to step back from the individual decisions, proceedings and policy debates that occupy our days and consider a bigger question: Are we building a communications system that works for Canadians today and is ready for tomorrow?

Canada's communications story has always involved two closely connected ambitions: building the infrastructure that brings us together, and ensuring that Canadians benefit from it.

From the early telephone networks to today's fibre and wireless infrastructure, every generation has faced a version of the same challenge. Networks require capital, careful planning and sustained investment. But their value ultimately lies in the connections they make possible -- for individuals, businesses and communities across our vast country.

The Telecommunications Act reflects these connected ambitions. We need conditions that support the development of high-quality networks. And Canadians need reliable services, fair treatment, understandable prices and meaningful choices.