Consumers group argues for "Wireless Code" with cost protection.
from the Public Interest Advocacy Centre
Consumer rights group the Public Interest Advocacy Centre (PIAC) said today that there is now real hope that a comprehensive “Wireless Code” can solve many of consumers’ most daunting problems with their wireless phone service providers.
PIAC represented the Consumers’ Association of Canada (CAC) and Council of Senior Citizens’ Organizations of British Columbia (COSCO) before the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC), in an oral hearing today. PIAC’s remarks focused on closing loopholes and improving the CRTC’s draft Wireless Code, which will revolutionize consumer rights to receive fair and understandable service from their cellphone providers.
PIAC’s presentation focused on five key areas for consumers: caps on fees, bargaining on contracts, unlocking phones, fair termination fees, and enforcement of the Code.
“Canadians need a Wireless Code to improve contracts, allow them to switch carriers without unfair termination fees, and limit bill shock,” said John Lawford, Co-Counsel for PIAC. “We will ensure the CRTC takes its responsibility to get this right for consumers very seriously,” he added.
PIAC’s presentation focused on five key areas for consumers: notification of extra charges and monetary caps on those charges; prohibition of unilateral changes to contracts by wireless companies; a fair termination fee formula so consumers know the cost of switching carriers; unlocking of cellphones; and effective enforcement of the Wireless Code.
Janet Lo, Co-Counsel for PIAC said PIAC’s oral presentation emphasized this unique opportunity to create a durable, workable and fair Wireless Code: “We emphasized the collective responsibility of wireless carriers, the CRTC and consumer groups to respond to the needs of wireless consumers,” said Lo, “Consumers want and deserve a Wireless Code now.”
Download the PIAC/CAC/COSCO oral remarks to the CRTC.
About Public Interest Advocacy Centre
PIAC is a non-profit organization that provides legal and research services on behalf of consumer interests, and, in particular, vulnerable consumer interests, concerning the provision of important public services.
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