CRTC asking for consumer input on new code for retail wireless services

CanadaThe Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) today invited Canadians to participate in putting together a new rules by which mobile carriers sell their wireless services.

“Our goal is to make sure that Canadians have the tools they need to make informed choices in a competitive marketplace,” said Jean-Pierre Blais, Chairman of the CRTC. “In the past, Canadians have told us that contracts are confusing, and that terms and conditions can vary greatly from one company to another. We are asking them to assist us in developing a code that will help them better understand their rights as consumers and the responsibilities of wireless companies.”

The CRTC wants to define a what terms and conditions should be covered by the code, who would be required to follow the code, how it should be enforced, and how to track its effectiveness. Topics include the wording of contracts, disclosure of pices and fees and the rights of consumers.

Comments can be provided via online form, fax or by mail. The consultation is open until November 20th, 2012. An online consultation will also take place but details have not been communicated yet. The consultation period will be followed by a public hearing in January.

Read more: CRTC