Bram Abramson has been appointed to a five-year term as the regional commissioner for Ontario at the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC).

Minister of Canadian Heritage Pablo Rodriguez announced the appointment on Monday (Jan. 30). Abramson (pictured) succeeds former Ontario commissioner Monique Lafontaine, who concluded her five-year term with the CRTC earlier this month. His term begins on Feb. 15.

The newly-appointed commissioner has more than 20 years of experience in telecommunications law. His experience includes several years as a technology and communications law associate at McCarthy Tétrault LLP, chief legal and regulatory officer at TekSavvy, and general counsel for blockchain company Decentral.

He is currently a trustee at the American Registry for Internet Numbers, and has served as a director on the Commission for Complaints for Telecom/Television Services.

“Bram Abramson’s extensive experience in law and telecommunications will be a great asset in his role as CRTC Ontario regional commissioner,” said Minister Rodriguez in a statement. “The CRTC’s regional commissioners ensure that the tribunal’s scope encompasses the entire country, thereby enabling Canadians access to an effective and reliable communications system from coast to coast to coast.”

The Governor in Council has made several new appointments to the CRTC in the last two months, including Vicky Eatrides, who succeeded Ian Scott as chairperson and chief executive officer. Appointed at the same time were Alicia Barin as vice-chairperson, broadcasting, and Adam Scott as vice-chairperson, telecommunications.

The team of commissioners has been set ahead of the expected passage of Bill C-11, a series of amendments to modernize the Broadcasting Act that will bring foreign-owned online undertakings under CRTC regulation. A third reading of the bill is currently on the order paper for the Senate, which goes back into session Tuesday (Jan. 31).