BC Wireless

The Winnipeg Free Press writes:

Canada’s broadcast regulator said Wednesday its wants feedback on whether the wireless industry needs national standards to ensure that cellphone and mobile device customers are protected.

“Our practice has been to rely on market forces as long as we are convinced that the interests of consumers will be looked after,” said Leonard Katz, the CRTC’s acting chairman.

“In this case, we are seeking evidence that our intervention is necessary before considering the development of a national wireless code,” Katz said in a news release.

The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission said it recently received several applications suggesting that a national code be established, including support from wireless provider Rogers Communications Inc. (TSX:RCI.B).

The CRTC announcement (http://www.crtc.gc.ca/eng/com100/2012/r120404.htm):

OTTAWA-GATINEAU, April 4, 2012 — Today, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) announced that it is seeking views on whether the wireless market has changed enough to warrant its intervention in the development of a national code for wireless services. The CRTC recently received several applications suggesting that one be established.

In 1994, the CRTC decided it would not regulate the wireless sector. It was convinced that there was enough competition in the marketplace to guide the industry’s growth and provide Canadian consumers with a choice of innovative services.

“Our practice has been to rely on market forces as long as we are convinced that the interests of consumers will be looked after,” said Leonard Katz, the CRTC’s Acting Chairman. “In this case, we are seeking evidence that our intervention is necessary before considering the development of a national wireless code.”

Those who wish to participate in the CRTC’s proceeding are invited to submit their comments by May 3, 2012. Comments may be submitted by completing the online form, by writing to the Secretary General, CRTC, Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 0N2, or by fax at 819-994-0218.

Telecom Notice of Consultation CRTC 2012-206