It’s enough to give you actual faith in your government.
Well, almost.
Twice so far this year the CRTC has ruled in favour of the Canadian people instead of big telecom. Earlier this year it was the coming down on Bell for their Internet price gouging.
This time the governing body that oversees Canadian telecommunications has taken the hammer to mobile phone providers who have been taking advantage of their customers for years.
Here’s the good news…
Canadians can cancel their wireless contracts without fees after two years, under the new wireless code unveiled Monday by the CRTC.
The wireless code also caps charges for extra data at $50 per month and charges for international data roaming at $100 per month to prevent bill shock, the CRTC said in a release.
The new rules by the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission will apply to new contracts for cellphones and other personal mobile devices starting Dec. 2.
“Every day, Canadians rely on wireless devices while in their homes, at their jobs, at school or travelling abroad,” Jean-Pierre Blais, chair of the CRTC, said in a release. “The wireless code will contribute to a more dynamic marketplace by making it possible for Canadians to discuss their needs with service providers at least every two years.”
The CRTC said that, among other things, individual and small business consumers will be able to:
- Terminate their wireless contracts after two years without cancellation fees, even if they have signed on for a longer term
- Have their cellphones unlocked after 90 days, or immediately if they paid for the device in full
- Return their cellphones within 15 days and specific usage limits, if they are unhappy with their service
- Accept or decline changes to the key terms of a fixed-term contract and receive a contract that is easy to read and understand.
The wireless code will apply to all service providers in Canada, in particular where customers pay a monthly bill after using their services and, where applicable, to pre-paid wireless services, the CRTC said.
“The wireless code is a tool that will empower consumers and help them make informed choices about the service options that best meet their needs. To make the most of this tool, consumers also have a responsibility to educate themselves,” Blais said.
All of this came about because Canadians had simply had enough.
The CRTC’s public consultation on the wireless code attracted over 5,000 Canadians, who shared their views on an online discussion forum, in writing and at public hearings.
Worldline‘s not a wireless provider (yet). We’ve been trying for years, but on this, the CRTC hasn’t been playing nice with others, but we’re working on them.
That said, isn’t it cool what a pile of ticked off citizens can do? Congrats to them, and to the CRTC for listening.