Statement from Minister Joly on the Governor in Council’s decision to uphold the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission’s decision on the mandatory wholesale access framework

April 20, 2026 – Ottawa, Ontario

The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, made the following statement:

“The Government of Canada is committed to bringing down costs for Canadians so that telecommunications services are more affordable.

“Certain stakeholders petitioned the Governor in Council asking it to overturn a decision of the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) concerning the mandatory wholesale rules for competitor access to high-speed Internet infrastructure.

“The Governor in Council has declined this request.

“These rules are leading to greater competition and choice for Canadian consumers.

“The government supports more competition to improve prices and wants to encourage competitive behaviour across our country to help build one Canadian economy.

“The CRTC continues to implement updates to the wholesale rules and is monitoring their impact. The CRTC is empowered to course-correct if the evidence warrants it.”

Associated links

• Telecom Decision CRTC 2025-154 | CRTC
• Petitions to the Governor in Council concerning Telecom Decision CRTC 2025-154
• Governor in Council’s decision to uphold the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission’s decision