by Lachlan MacQuarrie

Is Internet Access Canada’s New Essential Utility?

I’ve been reflecting on how much Canadians, like people in many first-world countries, depend on the Internet today. For most of us, it serves as a primary means of working, learning, staying connected with family, and managing our everyday lives. It’s difficult to envision getting by without it. But does that mean access to the Internet should be considered a human right in Canada? It’s a complex question—one that I continue to ponder.

Internet as The Fourth Utility

Throughout my 30-plus-year career in commercial real estate, I have witnessed the growing importance of secure connectivity in both our personal and business lives. Today, we often refer to the Internet as The Fourth Utility, considering it as essential as electricity or water. A reliable network within our buildings not only enhances tenant satisfaction but also supports and often powers various systems, including lighting, HVAC, tenant submetering, and physical security locks. It serves as the critical backbone that enables these buildings to operate effectively.

But what happens outside the walls of our buildings?

For communities that lack reliable or affordable Internet access, it feels like living in a home with faulty wiring or no running water. Rural areas often struggle with aging or nonexistent infrastructure; even in cities, many families cannot afford quality Internet service. This digital divide is only widening.

A Big Question for Canada?

Could recognizing Internet access as a human right help us close the digital divide? It’s a possibility. Countries like Finland and Costa Rica have already made strides in this area, and Canada has made significant progress as well—designating broadband as an essential service was a pivotal moment. However, achieving universal access, especially in remote regions, is not an easy task. It requires funding, coordination, and a strong vision.

From my experience at Intelligent Buildings, I understand how complex Internet deployment can be, even within a single building. Now, imagine scaling that challenge across an entire country. It involves much more than just laying cables; it’s about creating a robust, future-proof system that works for everyone, regardless of their location.

Rights vs. Reality

The question of what a “right” truly entails is also significant. Would declaring the Internet a government-provided right result in meaningful change, or would it become mired in legal and policy disputes? Perhaps it would be more effective to treat the Internet as a public utility, similar to water or electricity—something we prioritize ensuring is accessible to everyone.

What Do You Think?

I don’t have all the answers, but I believe this: the internet is no longer a luxury. It’s an essential part of how we live, work, and connect. Whether we view it as a right or a utility, we can’t afford to leave it to chance.

What do you think? Should Canada designate internet access as a right, or is there another way to ensure everyone can get online?