Industry Committee on May 2nd, 2013

[Geoff Regan, Liberal, Halifax West, NS]

Thank you.

The Canadian Advanced Technology Alliance, which describes itself as Canada's largest high-tech association, has recommended that Industry Canada accommodate m-health in its spectrum allocation review. CATA says research estimates that the universal adoption of m-health would result in annual health care savings of 5% to 10%, which of course across Canada would be enormous. Does Industry Canada intend to act on this recommendation to accommodate m-health in its spectrum allocation? If so, why? If not, why not?

[John Knubley]

Again, what I can say today is that certainly we're aware of this recommendation. We believe we are undertaking these auctions to provide spectrum to the various companies in the sector to allow for many new practices to be undertaken, which are competitive. This is a big issue for the country because the data shows, of course, that Canada lags significantly behind the United States in terms of adoption of leading IT practices.

So without responding specifically to that particular issue, Mr. Chair, I can say we're looking at that, and of course, wanting to ensure we have a competitive ICT sector in the country.

[Geoff Regan, Liberal, Halifax West, NS]

Thank you.

The Public Interest Advocacy Centre recently released a report entitled “Transparency in Broadband Advertising to Canadian Consumers”. The report suggests that consumers are not effectively informed about Internet speed and performance claims made by their ISPs. Is it the department's view that ISPs need to be more complete and precise in their disclosure about the various aspects of Internet performance and the reliability of their so-called “up to” advertising claims? Do you see a need for enforcement guidelines focused on how these claims are conveyed to consumers, and what are you doing about that?

[John Knubley]

I'm not yet up to speed on this issue, so I'd be happy to get back to you on that.

[Geoff Regan, Liberal, Halifax West, NS]

Thank you.

[The Chair, Conservative, David Sweet]

It's fair to mention that the Conservatives passed on their spot, so everybody could get a five-minute spot.

Thank you very much for your testimony.

Also thank you, researchers, clerks, and all other staff for staying late. We appreciate your help.

The meeting is adjourned.