OTTAWA – Consumer coalition TV Alliance is calling on Heritage Minister James Moore to ensure that consumers can participate in the upcoming public hearing on billing practices for TV services in Canada.
“The Heritage Minister directed that special hearings take place for consumers on the TV debate, but consumers are being denied fair treatment in the process," said Alliance advisor Michael Janigan, in a statement. "The Minister should not support a two-tier consultation process, with privileged industry riding in first class while consumer groups ride in coach if at all."
The call comes in response to last month’s Order in Council asking the CRTC investigate the implications and advisability of implementing a fee for carriage. The CRTC agreed, and asked the government to ensure full participation by consumer groups in this consultation. The government has yet to publicly respond to the Commission’s request.
“Consumer voices are being silenced by Minister Moore’s inaction," said Alliance advisor Anu Bose, in a statement. "Canadian consumers must be heard in this process."
The TV Alliance and consumer organizations such as the Consumers Association of Canada and the Canadian Internet Policy and Public Interest Clinic have sent letters to Minister Moore asking his department to “remedy” the issue.
The TV Alliance is an ad hoc non partisan coalition that includes the Public Interest Advocacy Centre, Option Consommateurs, Friends of Canadian Broadcasting and Canada Without Poverty.
