The Canadian government expects to auction off wireless spectrum licenses in early 2008 and said on Friday it has started a consultation process ahead of the bidding.

“This consultation solicits input that will assist my department in developing a framework to foster a fair, efficient and competitive marketplace and ensure that the Canadian wireless industry remains in step with international developments,” Industry Minister Maxime Bernier said in a statement. She also said the government plans to make available a total of 105 MHz of space on the airwaves for additional wireless services, a process that could be a boon for both consumer prices and federal coffers. It will seek public comment on the auction between now and early summer. No specific date was provided for when the auction would take place.

Spectrum is used by telecom companies to deliver services such as cell phone and wireless broadband Internet access.

Posted: 02|17|07 at 9:39 am. Filed under: Auction News.