text: **Consultation on a Policy and Technical Framework for the**
  **700Mhz and 2500-2690Mhz Band and Aspects Related to**
  **Commercial Mobile Spectrum**
  In March 2012, 
  Industry Canada released its policy and technical 
  framework for the auction of spectrum in the 700 MHz and 2500–2690 
  MHz spectrum bands. Key things to note: 
  (cid:129) Industry Canada adopted an auction cap for the 700 MHZ (not a set- 
  aside like in the 2008 Advanced Wireless Services (AWS) spectrum 
  auction). There are four blocks of spectrum that are considered 
  “prime”. Large domestic wireless carriers are restricted to a single 
  block of prime spectrum each, while all other carriers are restricted to 
  two blocks. Rogers, Bell and Telus are considered large carriers 
  nationally. SaskTel is considered a large carrier in Saskatchewan, and 
  MTS is considered a large carrier in Manitoba. 
  
  (cid:129) All licensees were permitted to request roaming from other licensees 
  at commercial rates. 
  
  (cid:129) The timeframe for negotiating agreements is 60 days, after which 
  arbitration according to Industry Canada arbitration rules will begin. 
  (cid:129) The roaming capabilities must provide connectivity for digital voice 
  and data services regardless of the spectrum band or underlying 
  technology used. 