Rogers Communications’ plan to retire its 3G network by the end of the year has ignited concern among remote communities that still rely on the legacy system. In Ontario’s far north, where sparse population and challenging terrain make connectivity an ongoing struggle, the proposed shutdown feels more like a digital blackout than a routine upgrade.
In response, the Matawa First Nations Management team has formally urged the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) to press pause on the 3G phase-out. Their argument goes beyond nostalgia for older phones: many residents depend on 3G for critical services, from emergency alerts to health-care appointments booked online.
Beyond the call for a stay of execution, Matawa has also thrown its weight behind a community-driven solution. A Matawa-owned telecom enterprise is ready to invest in a modest 5G deployment tailored to the region’s needs. Local leaders believe this approach ensures better coverage, faster speeds, and profits that stay in the community rather than flowing to distant corporate headquarters.
My own perspective is clear: wholesale network decommissioning should not ignore Indigenous rights or amplify the digital divide. In many cases, waiting lists for high-speed rural upgrades stretch for years. By contrast, leveraging existing 3G infrastructure while building out community-centric 5G could bridge connectivity gaps without leaving anyone behind.
It’s also worth noting that a patchwork rollout of 5G often prioritizes urban and suburban markets where return on investment is highest. If regulators approve a delay, it would signal that public interest—not just shareholder returns—must guide telecom transitions. That precedent could influence how Canada handles future network sunsets, especially in underserved regions.
The clock is ticking. A CRTC decision to extend 3G support until a robust 5G alternative is in place would demonstrate real commitment to equitable access. Collaboration among federal authorities, carriers, and Indigenous partners can yield a more inclusive telecom landscape—one that respects the pace and priorities of remote communities.
In conclusion, the drive to modernize networks shouldn’t trample on those who depend on every available signal. A balanced, region-sensitive approach—combining a thoughtful extension of 3G with community-owned 5G investments—can ensure nobody is cut off during Canada’s next digital transformation.
