Canadians really need to be aware of what this election could mean for the internet. OpenMedia.ca is running a campaign of "Vote for Internet" which is interesting, but I don't think they are approaching it in a way that will have any real weight.
Canadians need to make sure that the internet is an election issue, and not just ridiculous stuff like this, we also have to worry about C32 (the copyright bill), internet billing, etc.
This part summarizes one thing I particularly noted. From Geist's description, the Conservatives appear to be trying to force this through with little or no debate -- and, presumably, if they can pull it off an equal lack of press:
There are several concerns with the Conservatives lawful access plans. First, it bears noting that these bills have never received extensive debate on the floor of the House of Commons and never been the subject of committee hearings. Police officers may support the legislation, but there has never been an opportunity to question them on the need for such legislation or on their ability to use lawful access powers if the bills become law. Federal and provincial privacy commissioners have expressed deep concerns about these bills, yet they have never had the opportunity to air those concerns before committee. Internet service providers, who face millions in additional costs - presumably passed along to consumers - have never appeared before committee. By making a commitment to passing lawful access within 100 days, the Conservatives are undertaking to pass legislation with enormous implications for the Internet that has never received parliamentary scrutiny and will receive limited attention.
We Canadians really are a passive bunch. I'm not sure why this is so, maybe because life is pretty good for a sufficiently large amount of people? Maybe because we're busy with NHL playoffs coming up? I don't know but if not for Professor Geist's continued efforts in this area, these issue would never see the light of day. His articles on thestar.com are the only ones of their kind that I can find on any major Canadian news site.
Canadians need to make sure that the internet is an election issue, and not just ridiculous stuff like this, we also have to worry about C32 (the copyright bill), internet billing, etc.