Statement by the Government of Canada on CRTC decision to eliminate fees for unlocking cellphones

Ottawa, June 15, 2017—The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, made this statement following today’s decision by the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission to eliminate fees for unlocking cellphones:

    “I am pleased that the CRTC has decided to eliminate unlocking fees for cellphones and require that new phones be sold unlocked, starting in December. This decision will provide Canadians with more choice and make it easier for them to switch to other wireless service providers. It will also encourage competition among providers, which could lead to lower prices for consumers.

    “Canadians are concerned about the rising cost of their Internet and cellphone bills. That’s why locked phones and unlocking fees are a significant irritant to them.

    “Our government is committed to protecting middle-class Canadians against the rising cost of wireless bills. We will continue to explore all possible options to ensure that Canadians in every region of the country have access to high-quality telecommunications services at prices they can afford.”

Follow Minister Bains on social media.
Twitter: @MinisterISED

For further information (media only), please contact:

Karl W. Sasseville
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development
343-291-2500

Media Relations
Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
343-291-1777
ic.mediarelations-mediasrelations.ic@canada.ca