[teleclick] Canada’s official opposition leader, Michael Ignatieff, is promising that if elected Prime Minister, he would extend high-speed internet access to all rural, remote, and northern communities.
Ignatieff says he would ensure 100% broadband access within three years of taking power, and claims that this would cost just $500 million, which could be covered by the proceeds of Canada’s next wireless airwaves auction.
“This isn’t just about fancy technology,” Ignatieff said in a recent interview. “This is about the national unity of our country, tying us together, making sure that every Canadian has equal access to great health care, great access to education, great access to economic opportunity.”
In recent federal elections, Ignatieff’s Liberal Party has performed poorly in rural areas, particularly in Western Canada. This effect has been intensified by the party’s ongoing support of Canada’s firearms registry, a Liberal program that has been infamous for its gross cost overruns.
Extending broadband access is a nice gesture towards rural areas, but the cost of such an ambitious program should be scrutinized. Canadians should demand an independent audit of Ignatieff’s plan, and consider the potential for additional cost overruns before approving yet another of the Liberal Party’s grandiose schemes.
Ignatieff Promises 100% Broadband Penetration in Rural Canada
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