CRTC rules Northwestel must reduce DSL internet rates 10-30%

[inanna]

Last Updated: Mar 04, 2015 6:49 PM CT

Telecom provider must also lower price for additional data usage on DSL plans

In a decision that will affect many Northern Canadians, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommuncations Commission (CRTC) will require Northwestel to lower rates for residential low-speed Internet services by 10 to 30 per cent.

The decision is the latest aspect of the modernization plan ordered by the CRTC in 2011. Northwestel's Internet rates were called into question by the CRTC in late 2013. Rates in the territories often approached three to four times those in Southern Canada.

"Although we recognize the exceptional situation that exists in Northwestel's territory, we must not let these challenges hinder the development and affordability of telecommunications services in the North," CRTC Chairman Jean-Pierre Blais said in a statement. "Access to reasonably priced Internet services plays an essential role in the North's economic and social development.

"With this decision, we are reducing the gap between what consumers pay for Internet services in the northern and southern parts of Canada."

cont'd...

Link: http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/north/crtc-rules-northwestel-must-reduce-dsl-internet-rates-10-30-1.2981369

[Spazito]

1. My sister-in-law lives in the Yukon and I was appalled at the cost of internet access...

she had to pay to Northwestel, the only provider there.

Kudos to the CRTC for this ruling, it's long overdue, imo.