OTTAWA–GATINEAU – The CRTC’s national video relay service (VRS) has extended its service hours to allow users to make and receive calls any time of the day.
SRV Canada VRS allows its customers to communicate to a sign-language interpreter via an Internet-based video link. The interpreter provides real-time interpretation of conversations, as the system connects to the hearing caller whose words are translated into American Sign Language or Langue des signes québécoise.
Since the launch of SRV Canada VRS in September 2016, over 280,000 calls have been placed by nearly 5,000 Canadian subscribers. Canadians may access SRV Canada VRS at no cost, though it requires either a computer (Mac or PC), smartphone, or tablet (iOS or Android) and a sufficient Internet connection.
The CRTC created the Canadian Administrator of Video Relay Service (CAV, Inc.) to manage the service for all Canadians.
“This has been an incredible first year. CAV hasn’t just been about setting up a relay service to help people make telephone calls, it has also empowered the deaf community”, said CAV executive director and CEO Sue Decker, in a statement. “Customers are calling their banks and doctors, their friends, 9-1-1, and obtaining employment in ways they could not before. I’m so excited about the future of SRV Canada VRS and continuing to make refinements and improvements to the service.”
“We are delighted to see the positive impact the Video Relay Service has had over the last year for Canadians with hearing and speech disabilities”, added CRTC chair and CEO Ian Scott. “This initiative contributes greatly to ensuring an equal society for all Canadians. We will work closely with the Canadian Administrator of the Video Relay Service to promote this service so that even more Canadians benefit.”
