Thank you, Sheehan.
Good morning.
We watched your last meeting and heard stories that underlined how crucial it is that all Canadians have connectivity no matter where they are.
We all have these stories that stick with us. As a parent, the one that sticks with me is that of Angelina Arrowmaker. Angelina had to move more than 200 kilometres to Yellowknife at the start of grade 11, because her community lacked reliable connectivity for virtual education.
These are the stories that we are hoping to make a thing of the past. Connecting all Canadians provides vital services, opens doors and creates opportunities.
A key question at your last meeting was how to get coverage to underserved areas. Let me briefly explain how the CRTC is doing its part.
First, since 2019, the CRTC has helped allocate funding for reliable Internet and cellphone services. It is improving service in more than 320 communities and along more than 650 kilometres of major roads, often in remote areas.
Second, our wireless competition policy creates strong incentives for providers to improve coverage. Competitors are now offering cellphone service in nearly 100 new communities across seven provinces.
Third, when networks are built, we want them to be strong and resilient. We have an ongoing public proceeding to develop policies that will help build high-quality networks.
The good news is that there is broad alignment among Canadians, governments and industry that everyone should be able to connect to reliable and high-quality Internet and cellphone services. At the CRTC, we are doing our part to advance connectivity for Canadians.
Thank you again for inviting us, and we look forward to your questions.