CRTC to ensure telecommunications networks can support next-generation 9-1-1 services

CRTC to ensure telecommunications networks can support next-generation 9-1-1 services


GATINEAU, QC, June 25, 2014 /CNW/ - The Canadian Radio-television and
Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) today announced the steps it will
take to enhance Canadians' access to existing 9-1-1 services and
facilitate the transition to next-generation 9-1-1 services.



The action plan published today was established further to a
consultation in which Canadians were asked to identify and prioritize
the matters within the CRTC's jurisdiction that should be addressed
regarding 9-1-1 services. The CRTC regulates the telecommunications
service providers that carry calls to 9-1-1 call centres, while
emergency responders and call centres are under the jurisdiction of
municipalities, provinces and territories.



During the recent consultation, some participants suggested that a
national forum could be established to promote better coordination
between the different partners in the provision of 9-1-1 services. As
the 9-1-1 system is a shared responsibility, collaboration between all
parties involved would be very helpful to not only improve the current
system, but prepare it for next-generation 9-1-1 and new technologies.



The CRTC would be prepared to participate in such a forum and share its
expertise in the areas under its jurisdiction.



In the meantime, the CRTC will review the regulatory framework for
next-generation 9-1-1 and will launch a proceeding in early 2016 to
ensure telecommunications service providers' networks can support new
technologies when 9-1-1 call centres have the capabilities to use them.



The CRTC will also address certain priorities related to the existing
9-1-1 system. These include improving caller location information,
reviewing the reliability and resiliency of 9-1-1 networks and
supporting efforts to prevent accidental 9-1-1 calls.



Finally, in order to assist the CRTC in making decisions on various
9-1-1 matters, telecommunications service providers will be required to
provide relevant data whenever necessary.



Through this action plan, the CRTC is ensuring that Canadian
telecommunications networks are evolving at an appropriate pace to
support Canadians' needs for effective access to 9-1-1 emergency
services as part of a world-class communications system.


Quick Facts


-- The CRTC is creating a safer environment for Canadians by
ensuring they have access to 9-1-1 services through a reliable
and modern communication system.

-- The CRTC has issued an action plan to improve Canadians' access
to current 9-1-1 services and prepare for a review of
next-generation 9-1-1 services.

-- The CRTC's action plan is based on the comments received
following the publication of a report on 9-1-1 services by a
CRTC-appointed Inquiry Officer.

-- In recent years, the CRTC has taken steps to improve the 9-1-1
system in Canada. Examples include enhancements to
telecommunications networks in order to permit the introduction
of Text with 9-1-1 for hearing- and speech-impaired Canadians
and the transmission of wireless location information.

-- Next-generation technologies are expected to improve how
Canadians communicate with 9-1-1 call centres by enabling them
to send text messages, pictures and videos, as well as interact
with emergency operators through other means. The adoption of
these technologies will occur gradually over the next few
years.

Quote


"The health and safety of Canadians is improved through their
communication system, in particular by ensuring they have effective
access to 9-1-1 services. The action plan we have announced today will
not only enhance access to existing services, but also ensure
telecommunications networks are ready to support next-generation 9-1-1
services. This illustrates how we will continue to fulfill our mandate
to ensure the communication system protects Canadians. As the
governance for the 9-1-1 system is shared, we would also welcome
greater coordination on 9-1-1 matters."



Jean-Pierre Blais, Chairman of CRTC


Associated Links
Telecom Regulatory Policy CRTC 2014-342
CRTC to examine future of 9-1-1 services in Canada
A Report on Matters Related to Emergency 9-1-1
CRTC marks the start of Text with 9-1-1 services for hearing or speech
impaired persons
9-1-1 Services for Traditional Wireline, VoIP and Wireless Phone
Services


SOURCE Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission

Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission

CONTACT: Media Relations
Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission
(819) 997-9403 Follow us on Twitter: @CRTCeng
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