CRTC invites Canadians to comment on a draft wireless code

OTTAWA, Jan. 28, 2013 /CNW/ - Today, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) launched the second phase of its public consultation by unveiling a draft code for wireless services. Canadians are invited to share their views on the draft and to join the online discussion at http://consultation.crtc.gc.ca.

Last fall, the CRTC asked Canadians for their help in creating a national code for wireless services, such as cellphones and other personal mobile devices. Canadians responded by submitting over 3,500 comments in writing and posting close to 600 comments on the online discussion forum. The CRTC has reviewed all of the comments, which shaped the working document (http://crtc.gc.ca/eng/archive/2012/2012-557-3.htm#a1) published today.

"I would like to thank Canadians for having shared their candid views on wireless services," said Jean-Pierre Blais, Chairman of the CRTC. "The draft code is still very much a work in progress and intended to encourage more discussion. We are inviting Canadians to participate by telling us what they think of the working document. Once finalized, the wireless code will enable them to make informed decisions in a competitive marketplace."

Canadians have made a number of proposals for the wireless code, including that they should have:

• A clearer understanding of their wireless services and fees.
• The ability to unlock cellphones on reasonable terms.
• The ability to set a cap on additional fees, such as those incurred from long-distance calls, usage of voice minutes, text messages, data usage and roaming.
• Online tools to monitor usage and any additional fees.

Canadians can join in the online discussion starting today by visiting: http://consultation.crtc.gc.ca. The website will remain open until 5 p.m. (PST) on February 15, 2013.

This online discussion is being held as part of a proceeding that will include a public hearing from February 11 to 15, 2013, in Gatineau. For the first time in the history of the CRTC, Canadians will be able to both listen to a live audio feed of the hearing and post comments as it unfolds. All comments posted on the website will be taken into consideration as the CRTC finalizes the wireless code.

Telecom Notice of Consultation CRTC 2013-557-3

Reference documents:

View the comments from Phase I of the online discussion

Video on the wireless code: http://youtu.be/tWesr6-1p_A

Fact sheet on how to participate in a CRTC public proceeding

News release, "CRTC invites Canadians to participate in the development of a code for cellphones and other mobile devices," October 11, 2012

Telecom Notice of Consultation CRTC-2012-557

Telecom Decision CRTC 2012-556

The CRTC

The CRTC is an administrative tribunal that regulates and supervises broadcasting and telecommunications in Canada.

SOURCE: Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission

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