Bell Canada Opposes Starlink Subsidies Amid Regulatory Dispute

Bell Canada is actively lobbying the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) to prevent Elon Musk's Starlink from receiving government subsidies aimed at supporting internet access in remote areas. Bell argues that since Starlink charges a flat rate across Canada, it does not require additional financial support, which could unfairly burden consumers in other regions. SpaceX, Starlink's parent company, contends that blocking the subsidies would limit internet options for isolated communities, including First Nations. This conflict is part of a broader backlash against Musk's ventures in Canada, linked to his associations with the Trump administration, with other provinces like Ontario and Quebec also retracting contracts or subsidies related to Starlink. The CRTC is currently reviewing public consultations on the subsidy program, which could provide substantial funding to internet providers for serving remote areas. The outcome of this decision will have implications for competition and service availability in Canada's telecommunications landscape.