CRTC is seeking feedback on which telecommunications services Canadians rely on the most [Update]

The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission announced today that it has reached phase two of receiving feedback from Canadians to better understand the areas that are not being sufficiently served by telecom companies.

The CRTC, which is on a track to modernize Canada’s telecommunication landscape, says it’s seeking more information and has provided a number of other ways beyond filling out an online form or emailing in their thoughts. Those interested in helping shape the telecommunications industry in Canada, which includes landline, internet and mobile, have until February 8th to participate.

The CRTC is specifically seeking understanding on the following questions:

• What telecommunications services do Canadians consider necessary to participate in the digital economy?
• Which services do Canadians rely on the most to communicate?
• Should the prices for telecommunications services in Canada be similar between urban and non-urban areas?
• What upload and download speeds for broadband Internet service would meet Canadians’ needs?

Once the feedback has all been submitted and reviewed, the CRTC will then conduct focus groups across Canada where telecommunications services are underserved and seek additional feedback. A public hearing will then occur on these issues starting April 11th in Gatineau, Québec.

Jean-Pierre Blais, Chairman and CEO of the CRTC, stated, “as we look to the future of Canada’s telecommunications needs, we are interested in hearing the views of Canadians from across the country, and especially those who do not have access to the technology they need in this digital era. In order to fully participate in the digital economy, Canadians need reliable, affordable and modern telecommunications services. Wherever you live in Canada, from St. John’s to Prince Rupert to Moose Jaw to Iqaluit, we want to hear from you.”

Update – January 19th: The CRTC noted in a press release that over 15,000 responses in 5 days to its questionnaire on telecom services.

Jean-Pierre Blais, Chairman and CEO of the CRTC, said, “the fact that many Canadians have responded so quickly tells us that our review of telecom services is timely, necessary and important. We look forward to hearing from even more people as we consider the services that Canadians need to fully participate in the digital economy. We have worked to make the process as simple as possible. So no matter where you live, we hope to hear from you.”

[source] CRTC [/source]