Strengthening and promoting Canadian content in an age of rapid technological and social change is an important theme in the report.  The document takes a lengthy look at the new world of digital content creation and distribution, and new market realities that are sprouting up as a result.

Sections of the document discuss unique and trendsetting digital developments, including YouTube and Hulu; mobile video and the 'TV anywhere' movement; spectrum allocation and 'Net neutrality; Docsis, IPTV, FTTH and more.

Noting that "Canadians are increasingly seeking multi-platform content wirelessly and online that incorporates complements to television content," the CTRC also goes on to speculate about possible regulatory looks at the booming wireless sector.

The document conveys some concern over a "potential for gatekeeping," and positions the need for a review to look at the opportunity and consequence of "open networks and preferential treatment" in an industry known for a high ownership concentration.

"Over time, the Commission's hands-off approach to wireless may come under pressure as it becomes a more important platform tool to access all forms of communications and the distribution of Canadian content" the document states.

Looking at a wide range of media platforms, content creation strategies and distribution technologies, the paper points out that "the 'pipes' are only useful inasmuch they are used to deliver services, applications and content to Canadians. It will be necessary to ensure that Canadians can contribute to and see themselves in stories that are accessible on multiple digital platforms, whether from private, public or community sectors. The role of the public broadcasters in this environment will be a key consideration."

The report says that user privacy and service standards will be key to the success and value of an emerging digital communications industry and it speaks to the need for a rebalancing of retail, wholesale and contract offering in the information and communications service sector.

The document explains that the CRTC "should continue to monitor the state of communications competition in Canada" by paying close attention to retail or wholesale rate increases, any potential barriers for consumers or competitors, established quality of service for resale-based competitors, and the comparisons to other countries in terms of price parity and service innovation.  Nevertheless, the CRTC states that "the elimination of monopolies in most residential and business services has been accompanied by the removal of the need for regulation to manage most facets of service."

While discussions and hearings continue at the CRTC on these and related topics (a CRTC decision about cable TV and broadcast carriage, or fee-for-service, is expected within two months, for example, while changes to the Copyright Act and development of an overall national digital strategy have been delayed), the CRTC document notes that any steps taken for "the preservation of Canadian programming and the protection of consumers may be increasingly required in the programming sphere."  It also says that "many of the Broadcasting Act's objectives will be achieved, in part, outside of the regulated sector."