Minister Paradis Challenges Telecom Industry to Innovate, Create and Thrive

TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - June 5, 2012) - The Honourable Christian Paradis, Minister of Industry, spoke at the Canadian Telecom Summit today about the Harper Government's measures to enhance competition, increase adoption of digital technology and strengthen Canada's digital economy.

"Canadian companies are world class, and our government is providing the tools they need to succeed," said Minister Paradis. "Together we can capture the potential of the global digital economy. We can create its technology, make the best possible use of its potential and reap its benefits."

In the past year, the Harper Government has taken a number of concrete steps to strengthen Canada's digital economy. These include providing more details on the 700 MHz and 2500 MHz band wireless spectrum auctions, improving access to foreign and venture capital, and building a modern legal framework to protect consumers and businesses.

"Adoption is key to success in today's economy," said Minister Paradis. "All of the steps we have taken are aimed at encouraging companies, both large and small, to adopt technologies that will lower their costs, improve their productivity and help them provide better service to their customers."

Minister Paradis urged the private sector to act on priority issues, such as bridging the urban-rural broadband gap and making greater use of information and communications technologies, to ensure that Canada is well positioned to reap the benefits of the growing digital economy for years to come.