LARGE TELCOS WIN AS CRTC OVERTURNS RULING - stifling independent internet service providers

WOODSTOCK, Ontario - June 1, 2021 - PRLog -- Execulink Telecom (http://www.execulink.ca/), the telecommunications provider headquartered in Woodstock, is surprised and disappointed by the decision of the CRTC (Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission) to overturn its 2019 ruling to lower the rates of wholesale internet prices.

"We are extremely disappointed with the CRTC's decision," says Ian Stevens, President and CEO of Execulink Telecom. "Our top priority is to be able to provide our customers with an affordable, awesome experience connecting them to the things and people that matter. Unfortunately, this decision by the CRTC will force us to evaluate how we can continue to provide services at an affordable price our customers deserve."

The CRTC made the decision on Thursday, May 27, 2021, to reverse its 2019 decision for large telecommunication companies to drop wholesale internet rates internet providers like Execulink Telecom pay to access internet infrastructure. This means the majority of the wholesale rates set in 2016 remain in effect.

"The CRTC's job is to create a stable, regulatory environment, and its sudden change from its 2019 decision destabilizes competition in Canada, forcing rates to increase," says Ian Stevens. "Small Internet Service Providers are negatively impacted by this decision, however it is the consumers who will suffer the most because of it."

At this time, Execulink is evaluating its market and pricing strategy in light of the CRTC's new regulatory direction that inhibits competitor success, and the outcome for its customers.

The federal government said it is reviewing the decision to ensure it aligns with its priorities of affordability, competition and innovation in the sector. Execulink will be working with partners to help continue the fight for fair and affordable internet rates.

About Execulink Telecom

In operation since 1904, Execulink Telecom has evolved from a small independent local telephone company into one of the leading telecommunications providers in Ontario. Through innovation and forward-thinking, the telecom provider has cultivated what began as local telephony offerings to provide a full-scale suite of telecommunications services including data, internet, television, mobility, and advanced voice features. These services are now available to all levels of industry, encompassing 50,000 business, enterprise, government, and residential customers.