CRTC Introduces Do-Not-Call List Framework

On July 3, 2007, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) announced a new framework for the creation and operation of a national, telephone do-not-call list (DNCL). The announcement does not specify when the registry will come into existence and many observers believe that the exemptions included in the registry will leave it without sufficient teeth. Bill C-37, An Act to amend the Telecommunications Act, (previously reported in E-TIPS ® as "Canada's "Do-not-call" Bill Introduced", Vol 3, No 14, December 22, 2004) , came into force on June 30, 2006. The legislation had given the CRTC the powers required to establish the DNCL. Canadians will be able to register their telephone number, at no cost, by phone, fax, or online. Within 31 days of the do-not-call registration, organizations will be required to update their telemarketing lists. Registered numbers must be renewed every three years. The costs associated with the operation of the DNCL will be covered by telemarketer subscription fees paid to the operator of the DNCL . Regarding any complaints , Canadians must file complaints with the CRTC within 14 days of receiving a telemarketing call and violations of the DNCL rules will be made public. There are a number of exempted organizations (including registered charities, political parties, opinion polling firms, general circulation newspapers, and organizations with existing business relationships with a consumer). These organizations will be required to maintain their own registries . The CRTC is expected to announce the operator of the DNCL in the coming months but the DNCL is not expected to be operational until mid-2008. For the CRTC's announcement and link to the proposed framework, visit: http://www.crtc.gc.ca/eng/NEWS/RELEASES/2007/r070703.htm For media coverage, see: http://www.thestar.com/Business/article/232198 http://tinyurl.com/2tdmea Summary by: Clare McCurley