The majority of Canadians can now benefit from the terms of the wireless code

OTTAWA and GATINEAU, QC, Sept. 18, 2014 /CNW/ - The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) today issued a report card that assesses the implementation of the wireless code by wireless services providers.

In late 2013, the CRTC introduced the code, which set out new standards that all wireless services providers must adopt. The CRTC asked these companies to submit reports on their implementation of the code. Most companies demonstrated that they had made the necessary changes to their contracts, policies and procedures within the prescribed time frames in order to comply with the code, but some of them still have to make changes to their practices.

The verification of the code's implementation is the first step in assessing compliance. The Commissioner for Complaints for Telecommunications Services (CCTS) will administer the wireless code and consequently determine on a case‑by‑case basis whether or not providers are complying with the code. The first CCTS annual report to include complaints concerning the code will be released before the end of the year.

The code sets out the basic rights of Canadians regarding services for cellphones and other mobile devices and helps to increase their understanding of the choices available to them. It contributes to a more dynamic marketplace for wireless services.

The CRTC reminds Canadians that they should contact the CCTS if they believe their wireless service provider is failing to comply with the code.

Quick facts

• The CRTC has issued a report card on its assessment of wireless service providers and their implementation of the code.
• Most companies have made the necessary changes to their contracts, policies and procedures within the prescribed time frames in order to comply with the code.
• The CRTC expects wireless services companies that are not in compliance with some of the conditions set out in the code to take necessary measures to be in compliance.
• The code explains to Canadians their rights and responsibilities as consumers of wireless services.
• Canadians should contact the CCTS if they feel that their wireless service provider is failing to comply with the code.

Quote

"The CRTC established the wireless code to provide Canadians better guidance with respect to wireless services. We are satisfied that the majority of the population can now benefit from the terms of the code and would like to remind the wireless service providers that they are required to comply with it at all times. The CRTC expects companies that have policies which do not comply with the code to take necessary measures as soon as possible."

Barbara Motzney, Chief Consumer Officer, CRTC

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SOURCE: Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission

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