I just worked with my team here on an amendment to the motion on the floor, which incorporates what Mr. Lemire included in his original motion. It's all going to be sent to you right now. We would include language encapsulating Mr. Lemire's comments.
If you look at the motion, it would read, “the committee therefore agree to be immediately recalled to undertake a study of up to”, we'll say, “six meetings, of at least two hours per meeting, to study”—and this is where we incorporate Mr. Lemire's comments—“the modernization of the regulatory framework, examine technological advancements such as 5G, fiber optics, Wi-Fi 6, and many others; that it examine innovative opportunities for businesses and consumers in Canada and internationally; that it scrutinize the operating costs of these technologies and the maintenance of so-called critical infrastructure; that it examine the need for network resiliency in the face of climate change; that it investigate unused spectrum in more remote and rural areas as well as deployment targets; that it examine the need to expand mobile connectivity to improve public safety, and examine telecommunications tower construction programs and infrastructure deployment financing”.
Then under item (a) regarding Minister Champagne, we'll add that he appear by January 26.
Then under item (b) regarding Mr. Staffieri, we'll add that he appear by January 26.
The Conservatives are trying to encapsulate the existing motion of Mr. Lemire, in good faith, to work positively with our colleagues, while acknowledging that the intent of this Standing Order 106(4) meeting was to hold the big telcos to account for increasing prices. They came to this committee on January 25, 2023, and said they would provide more competition, which means lower prices in western Canada especially, just under a year ago.
That motion should be circulating right now. I encourage all committee members to take a quick look at it. Canadians don't want to wait until we get back. We can do this work right now on their behalf to address the affordability challenges they are facing.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.