Canadian Government Plans Wireless Spectrum Auction for Early 2008

Press Release - February 19, 2007

The Canadian government is expecting to auction off a number of new wireless spectrum licenses early next year, and is already in the planning and consultation phase, according to a statement released on Friday.

“This consultation solicits input that will assist my department in developing a framework to foster a fair, efficient and competitive marketplace and ensure that the Canadian wireless industry remains in step with international developments,” commented Industry Minister, Maxime Bernier.

The minority Conservative government is still deciding whether new entrants will be allowed in on the bidding to compete with the country’s three existing wireless carriers, Telus, Bell Canada, and Rogers Communications.

A total of 105-MHz of spectrum will be auctioned off, the government said, all of it in the 2-GHz range. No specific details were given as to when the bidding would take place or how long it would last.