CRTC announces priorities for 2012-2015

OTTAWA-GATINEAU, Sept. 6, 2012 /CNW/ - Today, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) released a three-year plan that outlines the activities it expects to carry out from 2012 to 2015.

"In the coming years, we will focus our efforts around three key pillars: create, connect and protect," said Jean-Pierre Blais, Chairman of the CRTC. "The activities identified under each of these pillars will serve to foster a world-class communication system for Canadians as citizens, creators and consumers."

The activities under the "create" pillar ensure that Canadians have access to compelling creative content from diverse sources and on a variety of platforms. Between 2012 and 2015, the CRTC will conduct a series of policy reviews, including a targeted review of the commercial radio policy for French- and English-language markets. It will also initiate a public proceeding to renew the licences of independent television services.

The activities under the "connect" pillar ensure that Canadians can connect to quality and innovative communication services at affordable prices and have access to creative content. Among the activities planned for the next three years, the CRTC will review issues related to the accessibility of telecommunication services and the wholesale services large companies must provide to their competitors.

Finally, the activities under the "protect" pillar enhance the interests of Canadians by promoting compliance. During the next three years, the CRTC will continue to enforce the telemarketing rules and begin to enforce Canada's anti-spam legislation once it comes into force. In addition, the CRTC will promote the safety of Canadians by monitoring the deployment of the public alert system and reviewing the regulatory framework for next-generation 911 services.

"It can sometimes be a challenge for Canadian consumers to make informed decisions in a competitive marketplace," Mr. Blais added. "We will continually review our regulatory framework to make sure it empowers consumers by giving them the tools they need. We will also ensure that the regulatory framework remains aligned with the evolving communication industry."

Three-Year Plan 2012-2015
http://www.crtc.gc.ca/eng/backgrnd/plan2012.htm

The CRTC
The CRTC is an independent public authority that regulates and supervises broadcasting and telecommunications in Canada.

SOURCE: Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission

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