Federal opposition to CRTC moves not helping.   Ottawa—The disparity between urban and rural Internet service is growing worse according to data released by the Canadian Internet Registration Authority (CIRA) in mid-August, says Open Media, which supports improved access. Days after the CIRA report came out, the federal cabinet made the situation even worse by backing a 2019 Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications (CRTC) decision to continue a review of the wholesale rates that large telecom companies charge independent Internet service firms. OpenMedia Executive Director Laura Tribe the decision did nothing to help improve Internet affordability because it allows rates charged to consumers to rise. “What's really needed is action on the government's much-delayed $1.7 billion Universal Broadband Fund. “Two weeks ago we learned that cell phone prices have not come down, despite repeated promises from the government,” Tribe said. The announcement by Innovation Minister Navdeep Bains “will inevitably lead to higher Internet prices for Canadians. This is not what's needed right now. Canadians and small, independent Internet service providers are already on the ropes due to COVID-19. “We need bold action to help Canadians and promote choice and affordability – not weak, half-measures that maintain the status quo and put small providers at risk.” Brian Masse, NDP Telecommunications Critic, said, “Instead of making fast and reliable internet connection more affordable for Canadians, the Liberals are worried about rich telecom corporations losing profits. They are clearly on the wrong side and Canadians deserve better.” He said that 63 percent of rural households do not have access to high speed internet. “Canada's largest telecom companies have been lobbying the Liberal government extensively to protect their profits and it shows.” The Universal Broadband Fund was announced 16 months ago but the government has done nothing with it,” he said. “If not now, when will this ever be a priority? What is it going to take?” OpenMedia said despite many promises from the federal government that universal Internet connectivity is a priority, “it is a serious concern to see such disparity in where progress is being made, with no improvements for those who need it most.” Bains said, “Canada's future depends on connectivity. The government recognizes that access to affordable, high-quality high-speed Internet is a necessity for all Canadians, no matter where they live. “The COVID-19 pandemic has only reinforced the importance of connectivity. The investments our government is making in high-quality networks, particularly in rural and remote communities, are key to ensuring equitable digital access for all Canadians. Equitable access also means that it is available at fair prices that Canadians can afford.” He said the cabinet concluded rates that the CRTC proposed “do not, in all instances, appropriately balance the policy objectives of the wholesale services framework and is concerned that these rates may undermine investment in high-quality networks, particularly in rural and remote areas.” Incentives for ongoing investment, particularly to foster enhanced connectivity for those who are unserved or underserved, are a critical objective of the overall policies governing telecommunications, including these wholesale rates. “Our government has made significant investments to support the building of Internet infrastructure in rural and remote areas so these communities can succeed in the digital age. We are committed to increasing higher speed broadband coverage and supporting competition, choice and the availability of services for Canadian consumers and business users. Alex Binkley is a freelance journalist and writes for domestic and international publications about agriculture, food and transportation issues. He's also the author of two science fiction novels with more in the works.