CRTC helps Canadians find phone, mobile, Internet and TV Service providers with a new online tool

GATINEAU, QC, Feb. 19, 2016 /CNW/ - In a dynamic communications marketplace, Canadians have choices in innovative communications service providers. The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) is helping Canadians find the providers that best meet their needs with a new tool on its website.

Through the new Communication Service Providers in Canada online tool, Canadians will be able to search for phone, mobile, Internet and television services available in their area. Users can also access helpful details such as how different kinds of providers work, and learn about the types of communication technologies they use.

This new online tool includes practical tips to help Canadians make the most of communication services available to them. It also includes facts about switching providers and links to third-party websites that rate and compare the quality and value of communication packages.

The CRTC is unveiling this new online tool 10 days before significant changes come into effect for Canada's television service providers. Starting March 1, 2016, Canadian TV service providers such as cable and satellite companies must offer a new affordable basic package that costs no more than $25 per month, not including rental equipment. Service providers also must offer either a selection of small channel bundles or give viewers the ability to select individual channels. Service providers must offer both small bundles and pick-and-pay by December 1, 2016.

Quick Facts

• The new Communication Service Providers in Canada online tool helps Canadians find phone, mobile, Internet and TV services available in their area.
• Details such as where service providers operate, the technologies they use and practical information including facts about switching service providers are available through this new online tool.
• Starting March 1, television service providers must offer a new affordable TV package priced no higher than $25 per month, not including rental equipment.
• Television service providers must also offer either a selection of small channel bundles or the option to pick and pay for individual channels.
• Anyone can provide information to help update the Communications Service list by logging onto the following web link: http://www.crtc.gc.ca/eng/comm/fourprov.htm

Quote
"During our consultations with Canadians, we have heard repeatedly that consumers crave choice and affordability when it comes to choosing communication services. We listened to what Canadians told us and many of our recent decisions have an important common thread: choice and sustainable competition. We know this is how we can ensure Canadians benefit from a world-class communications system. The new online tool that we are introducing today will help Canadians select service providers that make the most sense for their needs, their budgets and their realities."

- Jean-Pierre Blais, Chairman and CEO, CRTC

Related Products

• Communication Service Providers in Canada
• A Roadmap to Choice and Affordability

Associated Links

• Let's Talk TV
• Broadcasting Regulatory Policy CRTC 2015-96

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SOURCE Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission

Media Relations, [phone]; General Inquiries, [phone], Toll-free 1 (877) 249-CRTC (2782), TTY [phone]