OTTAWA – The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) launched a public process on Thursday, March 22 in an effort to ensure Canadians have access to lower-cost data-only wireless plans.
According to a news release, the consultation will aim to find out 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 across the country.
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.
The CRTC has also reduced final wholesale roaming rates by 44 per cent to 99 per cent, and announced it will also 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.
“Canadians are demanding greater choice of innovative and affordable mobile wireless services,” CRTC chairperson and CEO Ian Scott said in a news release.
“Today’s decision will see the introduction of lower-cost data-only plans throughout Canada as well as reduced final rates for wholesale roaming. As a result, Canadians stand to benefit from more investment in wireless networks and innovative and reasonably priced services.”
