Canada - Mobile reforms

Policy Framework for the Auction for Spectrum Licences for Advanced Wireless Services and other Spectrum in the 2 GHz Range

This paper provides policy decisions on the key elements of the policy framework for the auction for spectrum licences in the 2 GHz range including Advanced Wireless Services (AWS).

On February 16, 2007, Industry Canada announced in Canada Gazette Notice DGTP-002-07, the release of a paper entitled Consultation on a Framework to Auction Spectrum in the 2 GHz Range including Advanced Wireless Services. The deadline for the receipt of comments was May 25, 2007 and there was an opportunity to provide reply comments by June 27, 2007. Sixty parties provided comments which were posted on Industry Canada's Spectrum Management and Telecommunications website.

The department has taken into account all comments received and wishes to thank participants for their views.

The policy decisions contained in this paper are final. The auction framework document will be issued before the end of 2007 and will elaborate auction application procedures, licensing parameters, technical considerations, bidder applications and timing for next steps such as a mock auction for bidder familiarization. In making this announcement now, the department's intention is to provide as much clarity and certainty as possible for potential participants in the auction in a timely manner. The department intends to move quickly to ensure there are no delays in the auction, which is expected to be held in the first half of 2008.

In addition, Industry Canada will undertake a supplementary public consultation on specific changes to the conditions of licence for current licensees to implement the policy measures announced in this document. This supplementary consultation will be announced in a notice in the Canada Gazette, Part I to be published as soon as possible. The consultation will also be posted on Industry Canada's Spectrum Management and Telecommunications website. Following the consultation, the final conditions of licence will be made public so that all those affected are aware of the changes prior to the deadline for auction applications.