Good morning! Welcome back to Queen Street Analytics' weekly digest of regulatory developments, legislative discussions, political announcements and other government-related news concerning cellphone and wireless carriers, ISPs, satellite communications, broadband access, 5G, remote communities, and CRTC spectrum licences.

Every Monday, we break down the most important updates in this space in under five minutes.

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Start Date: 2025-03-09
End Date: 2025-03-15

Top Headlines

Main Stories

Canada Launches Consultation on International Data Protection Certifications

The Government of Canada has initiated a consultation process to implement international data protection and privacy certifications, as announced by Minister François-Philippe Champagne on March 11, 2025. This initiative aims to enhance trust in cross-border data transfers and support organizations in developing privacy management programs. The certifications will promote growth and innovation by ensuring high privacy standards, facilitating access to international markets.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

Addendum to Spectrum Licensing Framework Announced

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) released an addendum to the Non-Competitive Local Licensing Framework, including spectrum in the 27.5-28.35 GHz band. The document outlines decisions regarding millimeter wave spectrum application and follows consultations from prior notices. This framework aims to guide local licensing and enhance spectrum utilization.

Sources: Gazette, Part I: www.gazette.gc.ca

Consultation on 26 GHz and 38 GHz Bands Opened

ISED has begun consultations on repurposing the 26 GHz frequency bands and proposals for a mmWave auction in the 26 GHz and 38 GHz bands. Interested parties are encouraged to submit comments by May 5, 2025, with reply comments due by June 4, 2025. The consultation will consider competitive measures and deployment requirements.

Sources: Gazette, Part I: www.gazette.gc.ca

Radiocommunication Act Exemption Order for Jammers in Correctional Services

A new order under the Radiocommunication Act allows the use of jammers in correctional facilities to enhance security against contraband. Businesses involved in supplying jammer-related goods may be affected, with costs expected to be minor compared to potential benefits. The order aims to secure penitentiaries and support public safety.

Sources: Canada Gazette, Part II: www.gazette.gc.ca

Telecommunications Services Producer Price Index Released

Statistics Canada has released data on telecommunications services producer price indexes for the fourth quarter of 2024. This data provides insights into pricing trends within the telecommunications sector, offering valuable information for industry analysis and forecasting.

Sources: Open Government Data Set: www.statcan.gc.ca

Important Updates

Secondary Stories

CRTC Posts Consultation Documents Online

The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission has made consultation documents and regulatory policies available on its website for public examination.

Sources: Gazette, Part I: www.gazette.gc.ca

CRTC Application Notices

The CRTC has posted details of applications for renewal, amendment, or complaints, with deadlines for submissions set for early April.

Sources: Gazette, Part I: www.gazette.gc.ca

Cybersecurity Market Trends

A report discusses future trends and outlook for the cybersecurity market, emphasizing technological advancements and market dynamics.

Sources: Canadian News Outlet: www.theglobeandmail.com

Provincial Announcements

Quebec's Next Generation 9-1-1 Obligations

Quebec reminds municipalities of their responsibilities in maintaining geographic data for Next Generation 9-1-1 services.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: www.quebec.ca

Public Officials' Social Media

MP Dan Albas Criticizes Telecom Rate Increases

MP Dan Albas addressed concerns on Twitter about Rogers increasing wireless rates post-Shaw acquisition, urging action from the government.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

What We're Reading This Week

• Musk's Starlink: Coverage of Starlink's potential impact on remote internet connectivity in India.
• Cessna Citation X Customers: Starlink high-speed internet becomes available for Cessna Citation X and X+ customers.
• Telecom Stocks: Analysis on the recent decline in telecom stocks like AT&T and T-Mobile US.