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CRTC fosters sustainable competition, innovation and investment in the wireless services marketOTTAWA, May 5, 2015 /CNW/ - The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) today announced measures to ensure that Canadians benefit from sustainable competition among wireless service providers, as well as continued investments in high-quality networks. In particular, the CRTC will regulate certain wholesale rates that Bell Mobility, Rogers Communications and Telus charge other Canadian wireless companies. To provide mobile wireless services to their customers, companies enter into a wide variety of wholesale arrangements. The rates, terms and conditions under which wireless companies, in particular smaller carriers, are able to obtain wholesale services are critical to their ability to offer competitive retail services. Wholesale roaming As such, the CRTC will regulate the rates that Bell, Rogers and Telus charge other companies for wholesale wireless roaming services. The CRTC has set interim rates for these services effective today, and is requiring the three companies to file final proposed rates by November 4, 2015.
Roaming caps Other matters Finally, the CRTC will use its current processes to deal with issues related to the tower and site-sharing arrangements between wireless carriers. Tower and site-sharing agreements enable wireless companies to install their own equipment on another carrier's tower or site and deploy their networks in a cost-effective and efficient manner. These agreements also minimize the number of towers in Canadian communities. Today's decision follows a public consultation, which included a public hearing that was held from September 29 to October 3, 2014. Quick Facts
Quote "With more than 28 million subscribers, the wireless sector is of tremendous importance to Canada's economy. Innovation that leverages the use of wireless networks now forms part of our daily life and the important role of wireless technology increases each and every day. With microcomputers that fit in our palm, pocket or purses, we can do our banking, check up on our kids or elderly parents, apply for jobs, register for Government services or stay in contact with our friends, co-workers or clients. The measures that we are putting in place today in the wireless market will ensure that Canadians continue to have more choice as well as innovative high-quality services." Jean-Pierre Blais, Chairman of the CRTC
Associated Links Technical Glossary - Wholesale Wireless Decision This document is available in alternative format upon request.
SOURCE Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission |