CRTC decision and consultation on wireless services

Jim Eglinski, Member of Parliament for Yellowhead, is pleased to inform residents of a decision by the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) that will make new low-cost data-only wireless plans available to Canadians across the country.

The CRTC examined whether wireless offerings based on different business models and technologies, such as Wi-Fi access, could be leveraged to improve the affordability of wireless services for Canadians.

The CRTC concluded that there is a gap in the market for lower-cost dataonly plans. If these plans were more prevalent, Canadians, including those with low household incomes, would have more options when it comes to innovative and affordable mobile wireless services.

In an additional measure, the CRTC has reduced final wholesale roaming rates by 44% to 99%.

The CRTC has also announced that it will launch a process which will include consideration on how mobile virtual network operators (MVNO) can be leveraged to further contribute to wireless affordability and competition.

The purpose of the consultation will be to determine the specific attributes of lower-cost data-only plans. The CRTC is also seeking comments on what specific rules, if any, are needed to ensure they are widely available to Canadians.

Bell Mobility, Rogers and Telus must provide their proposals for lower-cost data-only plans by April 23. The CRTC will then publish the proposals for public comment.

“A 2017 government study found that regions with strong competition are the least expensive mobile wireless markets in Canada. I am pleased that the CRTC is encouraging competition to make wireless plans more affordable for all, including those in rural Canada,” concluded MP Eglinski.

More information on the decision can be found at: crtc.gc.ca/eng/ archive/2018/2018-97.htm