CRTC declares broadband internet access a basic service. But making full access to ultra-high-speed services a reality could cost tens of billions of dollars, and the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission said that achieving the goal will take a coordinated effort by it, businesses and governments.

Up to $750 million in funding will be available over the first five years and will be used to develop infrastructure in rural and remote areas. "These goals are ambitious, they will not be easy to achieve and they will cost money. But we have no choice," Chairman Jean-Pierre Blais said at a news conference.

Canadians can soon expect minimum download speeds of 50 megabits per second, roughly 10 times the current target. They will be also able to subscribe to unlimited data plans for fixed broadband service, as well as have access to the latest wireless technologies in the home and on major roads.