Mr. Speaker, I asked a single question of the Minister of Canadian Heritage during question period on Friday, November 25.
I asked the minister to explain why cabinet had decided to order a review of the CRTC exemption order on direct home satellites. Even though cabinet had made its decision for the review, even though cabinet had directed the details of the review to be gazetted, even though cabinet had decided who would conduct the review and who would be on its advisory council, even though cabinet had decided that the CRTC would not be the body to conduct the review, the minister refused to answer the simple question I posed.
I was aware of the details concerning the review. Surely the minister was informed so he could respond to my question. It is unfortunate that he could not explain the reasons supporting this decision. The decision had been made on Tuesday and yet three days later, on Friday, he still refused to explain fully to Canadians the basis of the decision and why it was made.
Telecommunications policy in Canada is rapidly being outpaced by the developments that are being made in the industry. Technological convergence is occurring at an exponentially increasing rate and the government must recognize that it can no longer adequately regulate the industry while providing fair treatment.
Competitive fairness is what this issue is about. The Reform Party does not oppose the idea of a review of the direct to home satellite distribution policy. We encourage such a review. However, we must ensure at all times that this review like all matters of government is dealt with fairly.
In order to maximize the level of fairness the process should be as unbiased as possible while still securing a high level of competency. At no time has it been suggested that competent people should be excluded from making contributions to the debate. However, we must ensure that no one interest is given more weight or is seen as being given more weight than any other.
The cabinet also decided to appoint three members from private industry to advise it on the decision. First, I would like to know the criteria for the selection process. Second, how much will this six month process cost? Third, how much are these advisers to be paid? Fourth and last, what exactly is their role?
It is not even clear why the government needs advisers on this issue. Surely there are competent people within heritage, industry, and the CRTC who understand how DTH policy will affect both the industry and Canadian culture.
As well, the review calls for interventions from the public and then it allows for comments on the interventions. Without advisers the only one who could influence the process would be the minister. However, if the minister wants an independent review of DTH policy and how it affects Canadian culture, then he should either let the CRTC do it or give it over completely to an independent public panel where there will be no undue influence.
In conclusion, I support the review of this policy. It is important that we ensure government regulations accurately reflect the needs of the industry and allow for all interested parties to compete on a level playing field.
Unfortunately, the minister's in house review with advisers who many in the industry believe will favour one company over another cannot accomplish these goals unless he makes it non-partisan. No matter what decision results from the review it will be viewed with skepticism from the industry because it will appear to have been influenced. The only way to ensure a quality review is to overhaul the process before it begins.