Earlier today, the CRTC announced that it has launched its online discussion for consultations for the new consumer wireless code of conduct. In making the announcement, the CRTC’s Chairman Jean-Pierre Blais said:
“’We encourage Canadians to join the online discussion and have their say on how wireless contracts could be clearer and easier to understand. … By sharing their views, Canadians can help us shape a clear list of terms and conditions that wireless companies will need to include in their contracts.’ The CRTC recently examined the wireless market and found that contracts were a source of significant concern for many Canadians. Once completed, the code will help Canadians better understand their rights and their wireless company’s responsibilities, and allow them to make informed decisions in a competitive marketplace.”
The CRTC’s new online discussion, which will be open until December 4th, will allow Canadians to give their views on what they think should be in the new mandatory wireless code, how wireless related complaints should be resolved and promotion and enforcement of the code.
The CRTC first announced that it was launching new public consultations for a mandatory wireless code of conduct on October 11th (see: here and here) to formulate guidelines for wireless contracts and reduce potential misleading advertising related issues.
In its initial announcement, the CRTC set out the following general elements it is considering addressing in the new wireless code: clarity of contract terms and conditions; changes to contract terms and conditions; contract cancellation, expiration and renewal; clarity of advertised prices; application of the code to bundles of telecommunications services; notification of additional fees; privacy policies; hardware warranties and related issues; loss or theft of hardware; security deposits; and disconnections.
This online discussion will be followed by another in early 2013 (from January 28 to February 1, 2013).
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