Wireless Industry Welcomes New Wireless Code for Canadian Consumers

OTTAWA, June 3, 2013 /CNW/ - The Canadian Wireless Telecommunications Association (CWTA) today welcomed the new Wireless Code developed by the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) for Canada's more than 27 million wireless customers. The CRTC should be commended for acting so quickly on this process that the industry requested last year.

"The CRTC has done its best to find a balanced approach for both consumers and service providers," said CWTA President & CEO Bernard Lord. "The Commission's decision that the new national wireless code will supersede provincial legislation is a very positive decision in that all Canadians from coast-to-coast-to-coast will have access to the same provisions of the new national code."

One area of concern to the industry is the Code's requirement of a 24-month amortization of wireless device subsidies. This requirement does limit consumer choice in the marketplace, and could make a customer's upfront purchase price of a smartphone more expensive than current offerings.

There will be some major technology development and costs associated with implementing and complying with the new Code, but the industry will work very hard to have all aspects of the Code ready for customers by December 2, 2013.

Canadian Wireless Telecommunications Association (CWTA)
CWTA is the authority on wireless issues, developments and trends in Canada. It represents cellular, PCS, messaging, mobile radio, fixed wireless and mobile satellite carriers as well as companies that develop and produce products and services for the industry. (www.cwta.ca)

SOURCE: CANADIAN WIRELESS TELECOMMUNICATIONS ASSOCIATION

Media information:
Ashlee Smith, CWTA
613-233-4888 ext. 227
[email protected]
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