To be fair, the Minister is correct. The concept is one that everyone subscribes to, the actual implementation may be one of great concern. One of the concerns tied into Ardicom, not only the missed deadlines and the fact that their technology may be outmoded, it is the impact, the market disruption that seems to be promoted within this proposal funded by the government in communities like Fort Smith, Rankin Inlet, Hay River, Iqaluit, all the ones where private businessman have made significant investments and have technology that far exceeds what is being proposed at Ardicom seems intent on undercutting these individuals. Can the Minister give assurances that, in fact, this will not be done, that there will be an arrangement worked out that will recognize the need and value of local suppliers of internet.
Michael Miltenberger on Question 606-13(4): Ardicom Digital Network
In the Legislative Assembly on October 7th, 1997. See this statement in context.
Supplementary To Question 606-13(4): Ardicom Digital Network
Question 606-13(4): Ardicom Digital Network
Item 6: Oral Questions
October 6th, 1997
Page 1440
See context to find out what was said next.