CRTC to introduce new area code and 10-digit local dialing in Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island

OTTAWA-GATINEAU, Oct. 1, 2012 /CNW/ - Today, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) announced the addition of a new area code to remedy a shortage of telephone numbers in the provinces of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island currently served by area code 902. The CRTC will also introduce 10-digit dialing in both provinces so that all local calls are routed to the correct area code.

Starting on November 30, 2014, customers requesting a new telephone number could be given a number starting with area code 782. Existing customers will keep area code 902 and their current telephone number.

The move to 10-digit dialing will begin in August 2014, and will be implemented gradually over the following weeks. During the transition, customers who dial seven digits will hear a message reminding them to include the area code for future calls, after which their call will be completed as dialed. Ten-digit dialing will be mandatory as of 16 November 2014.

Telecom Decision CRTC 2012-528
http://www.crtc.gc.ca/eng/archive/2012/2012-528.htm

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

Reference Documents:
Fact sheet - Area Codes
http://www.crtc.gc.ca/eng/info_sht/t1000.htm
News release 24 May 2012 - CRTC to address the projected telephone number shortage in Nova Scotia and PEI
http://www.crtc.gc.ca/eng/com100/2012/r120524.htm
Telecom Decision CRTC 2012-309
http://www.crtc.gc.ca/eng/archive/2012/2012-309.htm

These documents are available in alternative format upon request.

SOURCE: Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission

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