Universal access to electronic communications systems in Canada

This thesis examines policy initiatives which may improve the likelihood that electronic computer networks will be universally accessible, with respect to the production and the reception of information, to all Canadians. I begin by describing the technologies and industries which will be involved in the development of new high speed computer networks. I then examine the notion of universal access, and policies which have been applied to existing communications systems with the objective of improving access through affordability. I discuss some restrictions on content, including Canadian content requirements and carriage and content separation, and their effects on universal access. Finally, I examine some of the policy initiatives being considered by the Canadian government, and the degree to which they would protect the public interest. I conclude with alternative recommendations which I feel are more likely to succeed in ensuring universal access for Canadians.Science, Faculty ofComputer Science, Department ofGraduat