Government of Canada has partnered with the telecommunications sector amidst COVID-19 outbreak

Canada’s telecommunications service providers have acted promptly in ensuring the continuation of critical services in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Several telecommunications service providers agreed to the Government of Canada’s request in sending out text messages to devices that belong to Canadians living or travelling abroad. These messages contained relevant contact information for Global Affairs Canada support services. 

The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, has said “I am pleased that Canada’s telecommunications service providers have acted quickly to help Canadians as they take steps to answer the call for social distancing. The measure builds on various steps already taken by Canada’s telecommunications service providers to help consumers and ensure service remains uninterrupted.”

“The Government is looking to help them now and will ensure Canadians abroad receive important Global Affairs Canada information directly to their devices during this critical period,” he added.

“Canada is committed to providing all assistance possible to Canadians at home and abroad affected by COVID-19,” explained The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs. “Many Canadians abroad are currently relying on uninterrupted service from Canada’s telecommunications service providers to access consular services. I am pleased that the measures announced today will contribute to the Government of Canada’s ongoing efforts to assist Canadians abroad during this difficult and critical period.” 

The Honourable Navdeep Bains, and the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister Foreign Affairs, have extended their thanks to the companies involved. This includes telecommunications providers,  field workers who repair networks, as well as staff at stores repairing phones and communications devices. The services offered by Canada’s telecommunications companies contribute largely towards enabling the work-from-home economy while Canadian’s do their part in flattening the curve of COVID-19. 

Given the critical importance of telecommunications at this time, the Government of Canada and the nation’s telecommunications service providers are aiming to continue working together in helping Canadians.