Policy number:
2016-8-1
Convention:
2016
Preamble:
WHEREAS the law of “common carriage” has applied to public utility-like services such telecommunications since the telegraph and common carriage means the “carrier” (telco or ISP) must:
- Serve all customers who want service
- Charge “just and reasonable” rates, made public
- Treat/charge all customers equally (no unjust discrimination)
- Provide service with “due care” (adequate quality); and
WHEREAS the increasing practice of “Zero-rating” infringes on policy of “Net Neutrality” which favours decentralization, individuality, autonomy and free speech, and
WHEREAS the communications industry exerts enormous pressure on governments and regulators
Policy:
That the leadership of the National Pensioners Federation make representations to the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission [CRTC] and lobby government to ensure that the federal government and Members of Parliament are informed about our concerns regarding the importance of regulations supporting net neutrality and support of citizens;