Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission

There has been a long standing debate as to whether there is a place for government in business. Some argue that government should stay out of business and let the free enterprise market drive itself.  The most efficient and effective companies will survive while the inefficient ones will be pushed out of the market.  Others argue that businesses need regulators to police and regulate business practices.  For examples, government regulators should govern the sales of cigarettes, as they affect the health of society.  They argue that government regulators should apply tariffs to protect local jobs.  Whether they should intervene or not, the government must remain relevant and understand the current business practices.  This requires that the government utilize technology so they can keep up with businesses. Regulators cannot rely on 50 year old rules to govern the changing world.  CRTC is trying to regulate a dying industry while the world has moved ahead to the next generation in communications. This regulator is thinking in the 1970’s and applying their thinking to the 2020’s. Therefore, if the government wants to have a meaningful role in the market, they must keep up with fast growing businesses.  If they are unable to do so, they should get out and let the market run free.