CRTC delays launch of new proceedings due to COVID-19

The CRTC has delayed the launch of new proceedings due to COVID-19, stating it’s aware the telecommunications industry’s primary focus is on delivering services to Canadians. In a statement on Thursday afternoon, CRTC chairperson Ian Scott said the regulator was “paying attention to the ever-shifting landscape, adjusting our work accordingly and dealing with urgent matters expeditiously.” As well as moves to extend and suspend deadlines and postpone or reschedule public hearings, Scott said the CRTC would also delay “certain new proceedings.” Asked what those new proceedings were, CRTC spokeswoman Patricia Valladao said she could not comment on them because they had not been publicly announced. “The purpose of the message is to inform the public that if we are launching new proceedings during this exceptional period, it is because we consider them to be a priority,” Valladao said. In the statement, Scott said COVID-19 meant each day “brings a new set of challenges and opportunities as we adapt to ensure Canadians continue to have access to reliable communication networks across the country," and said the country’s communications system played a vital role in people’s lives “more than ever.” “Broadcasters are doing their best to help Canadians navigate their way through the COVID-19 pandemic by disseminating accurate and high-quality news and information updates, despite facing some challenges,” Scott said in the statement. “For its part, the telecommunications sector is working diligently to maintain a high level of service so we can all stay connected professionally and personally. And even though there may be occasions when networks are more congested, we know service providers are trying to resolve any issues in a timely manner.” Earlier on Thursday, the regulator delayed a series of deadlines for the roll-out of the country’s next-generation 911 service.

CRTC delays launch of new proceedings due to COVID-19

Brief | April 9, 2020

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CRTC delays launch of new proceedings due to COVID-19

Brief | April 9, 2020

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