The Government of Prince Edward Island presented its position to the Canadian Radio-television Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) today, urging the Commission to refuse the proposal by Aliant Inc. to increase local telephone rates for rural Islanders.
"Our position is simple - the Aliant proposal to charge differential rates discriminates against the rural people of PEI," said Hon. Mike Currie, Minister of Development and Technology. "The proposal runs contrary to the principle established by the CRTC to render reliable and affordable services of high quality accessible to both urban and rural customers and, based on that, we asked the proposal be rejected."
The Province's presentation was highlighted by five major reasons why rural-based Islanders should not be imposed with rate increases, including the fact that a differential in rates would violate the principles of equity, fairness and universality.
"We live in a country that prides itself on providing universal services to its citizens. Canada Post charges a flat rate to mail a letter. People in rural areas are not required to pay more to mail a letter, nor should they be required to pay more for local telephone services," Minister Currie said.
Minister Currie also noted that local telephone rates have increased significantly over the last five years.
"The message across PEI, and across Canada, is that enough is enough," said Minister Currie. "The proposed increase amounts to nothing more than a tax on rural households."
PEI's presentation was made via tele-conference on Monday by Mr. Paul Jelley, Deputy Minister of Development and Technology.