Oh we realize they are extremely expensive, unfortunately there isn't much we can do to increase telco competition with the current regulatory boards such as CRTC.
The only trick I have heard of to get lower rates is to rent a PO box in SK, sign up for Sasktel and get a SK number (Sasktel being government owned has lower rates I guess). Seems pretty complicated though.
If enough people call their representative and ask for change, change will happen!