[BoldPreza]

It's the same reason if I asked you what advantage does BlackBerry have over iOS, and the answer is the same. There is none.

Wrong. Take the patriotism out of it and here are my reasons.

As a communications devise with better keyboards the BlackBerry product is better.

BlackBerry also offer a hardware keyboard for those that need it that iPhone does not offer.

BlackBerry is a cheaper product. At a time when they cannot balance the books this should be heavily weighted.

The battery life on the Z10 and the iPhone are about the same but the Q10 and the Z30 Blow both out of the water.

For email management the BlackBerry platform is the best option especially when considering adding and managing accounts and the added utility of the Hub. I don't think balance is an advantage as it will probably be locked down.

It has come to light that the iPhone likely would not be run on BES so there is a security advantage.

I have been saying this throughout the entire thread.

So your turn.

Posted via CB10

[GooberNS]

It's the same reason if I asked you what advantage does BlackBerry have over iOS, and the answer is the same. There is none.

I disagree with you, off the top of my head the typing experience is far better on any BlackBerry 10 model, be it physical or software keyboard (iOS typing experience is OK at best), the Hub and the ease of multitasking which I guess is the Flow monicker. It is much easier to move from app to app, task to task than on iOS7. I can't speaker for previous iOS phones but I assume it's the same or worse.

Of course this is my opinion, perhaps BlackBerry 10 is an experience my brain and body (motor functions) find more natural. Thus more productive.

Posted via CB10

[BoldPreza]

Sorry but the iPhone is FIPS certified, just like the BlackBerry. And unless you need a certain department of defense security clearance, there is nothing wrong with iOS. That's the thing I like about living in Canada and being a proud Canadian. We have choice, and thanks to our government to giving us choice, and not ramming an obsolete piece of **** in my pocket to read my emails. In case you haven't heard the latest earnings, no one is buying BlackBerry devices, and there is a reason. CHOICE! Please don't tell me you're more productive on a BlackBerry than other devices. The only reason, I can see anyone being more productive on a BlackBerry is from the lack of apps to begin with...

Unless you're one of the staff in the federal government receiving one of these phones on government money, no no one is forcing you to get anything. These people in this position however signed on to represent Canada and should be supporting homegrown products because of it.

Posted via CB10

[GoJaysGo]

Unless you're one of the staff in the federal government receiving one of these phones on government money, no no one is forcing you to get anything. These people in this position however signed on to represent Canada and should be supporting homegrown products because of it.

Posted via CB10

Home grown? What's home grown about BlackBerry? Just because their offices are in Waterloo? The device is made in Mexico/China/Indonesia. So I guess they should now use computers made in Canada, running a Canadian operating system, and driving Canadian made cars, by Canadian companies. There are none. There are no Canadian computer companies, nor car companies, nor electronics companies, etc.

The truth be told, that these employees will not be any less effective or less secure than they are now with a Samsung, Apple or Blackberry product in their pocket.

[GoJaysGo]

I disagree with you, off the top of my head the typing experience is far better on any BlackBerry 10 model, be it physical or software keyboard (iOS typing experience is OK at best), the Hub and the ease of multitasking which I guess is the Flow monicker. It is much easier to move from app to app, task to task than on iOS7. I can't speaker for previous iOS phones but I assume it's the same or worse.

Of course this is my opinion, perhaps BlackBerry 10 is an experience my brain and body (motor functions) find more natural. Thus more productive.

Posted via CB10

But those are purely personal preferences, and not technical advantages. But I respect your opinion.

[GooberNS]

Home grown? What's home grown about BlackBerry? Just because their offices are in Waterloo? The device is made in Mexico/China/Indonesia. So I guess they should now use computers made in Canada, running a Canadian operating system, and driving Canadian made cars, by Canadian companies. There are none. There are no Canadian computer companies, nor car companies, nor electronics companies, etc.

The truth be told, that these employees will not be any less effective or less secure than they are now with a Samsung, Apple or Blackberry product in their pocket.

You are missing the point, it's not like BlackBerry 10 is some slouch of an OS, it's either on Par with or better than the competition, so the Canadian Government should be using BlackBerry phones especially when BlackBerry needs the sales right now.

I'm curious to know your view of our bailout in the auto industry...

Posted via CB10

[GooberNS]

The reason I'm asking that is because I see a lot of parallels between the two.

Posted via CB10

[BoldPreza]

Home grown? What's home grown about BlackBerry? Just because their offices are in Waterloo? The device is made in Mexico/China/Indonesia. So I guess they should now use computers made in Canada, running a Canadian operating system, and driving Canadian made cars, by Canadian companies. There are none. There are no Canadian computer companies, nor car companies, nor electronics companies, etc.

The truth be told, that these employees will not be any less effective or less secure than they are now with a Samsung, Apple or Blackberry product in their pocket.

How many of those companies provide high tech jobs or as much tax revenues to Canada or as many donations in their history to Canadian universities? That's homegrown. You focus on manufacturing only, well which one of those other companies builds here? Oh right none? At least the talent developing the product is here in this case. Manufacturing at the end of it is a small piece of the overall puzzle.

And you're bringing up useless points rather than tackling the issue in this case there is a Canadian option that provides the best option. Cars, computers, etc don't offer that so why bother bring them up at all?

Posted via CB10

[BoldPreza]

The reason I'm asking that is because I see a lot of parallels between the two.

Posted via CB10

Imo Canadian government was forced to participate in that as if they didn't we wouldn't have much manufacturing from those American companies in Canada left.

Posted via CB10

[GooberNS]

Imo Canadian government was forced to participate in that as if they didn't we wouldn't have much manufacturing from those American companies in Canada left.

Posted via CB10

Yes I completely agree and I'll add that the media was driving a lot of it too, plus the CAW, where the BlackBerry workers don't have that benefit. However the parallels I was thinking was both BlackBerry and the NA auto sector were bleeding cash, sales down, bloated companies, both had to be slimmed down, restructured and streamlined all while continuing to produce and reinvigorate sales.

Posted via CB10

[BoldPreza]

Yes but there were a lot of other variables. Those companies had crippling amounts of debt. It happened during one of the biggest credit freezes in modern history.

Additionally there were states wholly dependent on those companies surviving because they had not diversified.

In this case waterloo may be hurt but no way is BlackBerry too be to fail.

Posted via CB10

[BoldPreza]

Yes but there were a lot of other variables. Those companies had crippling amounts of debt. It happened during one of the biggest credit freezes in modern history.

Additionally there were states wholly dependent on those companies surviving because they had not diversified.

In this case waterloo may be hurt but no way is BlackBerry too be to fail.

Also this is not a case of corporate welfare Weare asking for, simply to continue to utilize the best option for communication. The one they have been using for close too a decade now.
Posted via CB10

Posted via CB10

[R Field]

The truth be told, that these employees will not be any less effective or less secure than they are now with a Samsung, Apple or Blackberry product in their pocket.

SMFH...please elaborate on this. I would like to know why you think iOS and Android are as secure and productive as BB10 phones. Please enlighten us.

BlackBerry Z30 | 10.2.1.1055 | BBM Channel C0006E212

[JuiciPatties]

Has anyone received a response from their MP or anyone else they may have emailed? I haven't heard anything, but I've asked some friends to also email and one of them said that they received a response from their MP's admin assistant that wanted clarification if they actually lived in the MP's riding. I guess they won't forward the message to the MP unless that person is in their riding. Hmm ... so the MP won't take action unless it is someone who can make a vote that counts.

I guess it makes some sense, but you would think they could at least send it to the MP. If someone has taken the time to write him/her, then at least give it a quick glance. S/he can forward it to the right MP if the wrong one was contacted. Perhaps I'm over-simplifying it. I'm not sure how much email they get each day, but according to some automated responses I received, they get a lot. I guess it is all relative.

[GooberNS]

Posted via CB10

All good points thank you.

Posted via CB10

[cain03171979]

Dear Mr. Foley,

Thank you for your email to MP Ted Hsu about MPs using iPhones versus blackberries. Ted appreciates you taking the time to write. He has asked that I look into the details of MPs� Smartphones for you, having not heard much about this himself.

I can tell you that the House of Common�s Board of Internal Economy has approved the adoption of the Apple iPhone as an optional new standard for all House of Commons users, starting in April 2014. Details about which iPhone models will be made available, and the exact terms of the agreement, are not yet known. However, not all MPs (and their staff) will be switching to iPhones and not all are eligible. Simply, Members will have the option to choose an iPhone, or the new Blackberry 10, if they are eligible for an upgrade when the new fiscal year begins in April. However, please know that Blackberries will still be available for all Members who prefer the Canadian brand.

Regarding your concern for the security level of iPhones versus Blackberries, we are told that the highest security features will be assured for all Members regardless of what device they choose. Parliamentary iPhones will come with added security features and they will operate on a special House of Commons system. Certainly, security is a top concern when it comes to government communications.

Regarding costs, the House will continue to pay for Smartphone�s monthly plan and roaming charges, as per the conditions previously set by the Board. However, the cost of any applications or digital content downloaded on a Smartphone, as well as that of accessories other than batteries, cases and chargers, will be a personal expense for Members and their employees.

Thank you again for writing, and merry Christmas,


Emily Trogen

Executive Assistant
Office of Ted Hsu, M.P.
Kingston and the Islands
818 Justice Building, House of Commons
T: (613) 996-1955 │ F: (613) 996-1958

[Prem WatsApp]

Sorry but the iPhone is FIPS certified, just like the BlackBerry. And unless you need a certain department of defense security clearance, there is nothing wrong with iOS. That's the thing I like about living in Canada and being a proud Canadian. We have choice, and thanks to our government to giving us choice, and not ramming an obsolete piece of **** in my pocket to read my emails. In case you haven't heard the latest earnings, no one is buying BlackBerry devices, and there is a reason. CHOICE! Please don't tell me you're more productive on a BlackBerry than other devices. The only reason, I can see anyone being more productive on a BlackBerry is from the lack of apps to begin with...

The built-in apps are great. Just my opinion. BlackBerry is more than "email".

More productive because of lack of apps? I thought the argument usually goes the other way around, "no apps, can't get anything done". You make me laugh, mate.

iPhone with 1GB RAM, no NFC, SDcard, etc. and "multitasking" grafted on to a 5+ year old OS software / UI is not "obsolete", but choice?
Sorry, I have made my choice.

Not selling? Z10 is sold out on kogan.com.au

My name is Prem, I'm using BBM ... from my QuZe10 ...whatarhyme...

[Gunner24]

Dear Mr. Foley,

Thank you for your email to MP Ted Hsu about MPs using iPhones versus blackberries. Ted appreciates you taking the time to write. He has asked that I look into the details of MPs� Smartphones for you, having not heard much about this himself.

I can tell you that the House of Common�s Board of Internal Economy has approved the adoption of the Apple iPhone as an optional new standard for all House of Commons users, starting in April 2014. Details about which iPhone models will be made available, and the exact terms of the agreement, are not yet known. However, not all MPs (and their staff) will be switching to iPhones and not all are eligible. Simply, Members will have the option to choose an iPhone, or the new Blackberry 10, if they are eligible for an upgrade when the new fiscal year begins in April. However, please know that Blackberries will still be available for all Members who prefer the Canadian brand.

Regarding your concern for the security level of iPhones versus Blackberries, we are told that the highest security features will be assured for all Members regardless of what device they choose. Parliamentary iPhones will come with added security features and they will operate on a special House of Commons system. Certainly, security is a top concern when it comes to government communications.

Regarding costs, the House will continue to pay for Smartphone�s monthly plan and roaming charges, as per the conditions previously set by the Board. However, the cost of any applications or digital content downloaded on a Smartphone, as well as that of accessories other than batteries, cases and chargers, will be a personal expense for Members and their employees.

Thank you again for writing, and merry Christmas,


Emily Trogen

Executive Assistant
Office of Ted Hsu, M.P.
Kingston and the Islands
818 Justice Building, House of Commons
T: (613) 996-1955 │ F: (613) 996-1958

Didn't address the majority of the point at alls. At the end of the day this is the situation:

"The representatives of the Canadian government are ditching a Canadian product for a foreign product that is more expensive, less secure and carries no discernible productivity benefit for MPs and the taxpayers that pay for them."

[R Field]

Exactly it was just the PC answer without really clarifying much.

BlackBerry Z30 | 10.2.1.1055 | BBM Channel C0006E212

[JuiciPatties]

And not even a response from the actual MP. It is from his admin assistant. Wow...glad he takes the time to respond to one of his constituents.

I hope you plan on responding.

[Harvey Specter]

I can only imagine the OP's outrage if the United States government decided to go strictly to iPhones due to the nationalistic reasons outlined in the original post. The double standard is hilarious really.

[JuiciPatties]

I can only imagine the OP's outrage if the United States government decided to go strictly to iPhones due to the nationalistic reasons outlined in the original post. The double standard is hilarious really.

Actually, I don't think that would be an issue. I think the OP, and Canadians in general, would not be concerned about any foreign government. Although, if the reason the foreign government uses is strictly security, I could see us having a good laugh.

[JuiciPatties]

Hey gunner....we can see you are very passionate about this, and I think you've done a good job of outlining your position and reasons and have got a number of people interested and active in communicating with their MPs and other government officials (including myself).

However, it seems you are getting a little over-emotional and it may distract from your initial post. Try and refrain from cursing and getting upset. You have taken this cause a great distance and it is much appreciated. Not everyone will agree and that is fine. You can continue to outline your reasons and make reference to your other posts, but try and remove the personal "jabs" and let's have a nice, fruitful (aka blackberry...haha) discussion.

[phylez]

How many people in this thread actually work for a government or a large corporation, AND in a position of buying power.

How many of you are ACTUAL security IT specialist?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Are you implying you are all 3 of those? Because judging by the collar dogs you are just a corporal, so that knocks you down to just 1, Govt employee.


Posted via CB10

So neither of you have anything to add to the thread other than just making assumptions?

As far as my military credentials and qualifications, the general public does not need to know those.

Sent from my Yellow Nokia Lumia 1020

Well you didn't really respond to GooberNS' question so assumptions will be made. But seeing as I had a few minutes to look into it, a bomber with 1 horse is not "in a position of buying power." Nor would a bomber be an "ACTUAL security IT specialist."

We may or may not be. But since you threw out the question of our expertise, and we know that you are none of the above, I throw it back to you; tell us more about how being qualified on an LG1 or M777 has any relevance here?

[Kris Simundson]

Well you didn't really respond to GooberNS' question so assumptions will be made. But seeing as I had a few minutes to look into it, a bomber with 1 horse is not "in a position of buying power." Nor would a bomber be an "ACTUAL security IT specialist."

We may or may not be. But since you threw out the question of our expertise, and we know that you are none of the above, I throw it back to you; tell us more about how being qualified on an LG1 or M777 has any relevance here?

Again, you have no idea my qualifications, so I'll leave you to you basic assumptions. I'm not discussing the finer details of my career on the internet


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk