Comments due by December 19
OTTAWA-GATINEAU – In an effort to address increasing complaints about Internet services, the CRTC is calling for comments on a mandatory code of conduct for Internet service providers.
The Commission said Friday that the proposed new code would establish consumer-friendly business practices, ensure contracts are easy-to-understand, and make it simpler for Canadians to switch providers to take advantage of competitive offers. The code would apply to retail fixed Internet access services provided to individuals and small businesses by large facilities-based Internet service providers.
The CRTC also included a working document based in part on certain provisions in the Wireless Code and Television Service Provider Code which it said is intended to “stimulate discussion and debate” on a new Internet Code.
All comments must be submitted no later than December 19, 2018 via the online form, by writing to the Secretary General, CRTC, Ottawa, Ontario K1A ON2, or by sending a fax to (819) 994-0218.
The CRTC created the Wireless Code in 2013 and the Television Service Provider Code last year.
“Codes of conduct are in place to protect Canadians who subscribe to wireless and television services”, said CRTC chair and CEO Ian Scott, in a statement. “While Internet services play an important role in the everyday lives of Canadians, the number of complaints has been trending up and we are of the view that a code for these services may be needed.”
In its annual report for 2016-17, the Commission for Complaints for Telecom-television Services (CCTS) noted a 38% increase in complaints about Internet services compared to the previous year.
