The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) is conducting a public consultation to enhance the National Public Alerting System (NPAS), used by emergency management officials across Canada to warn the public about threats to safety, such as severe weather and other emergencies.
NPAS is a collaborative effort among federal, provincial, and territorial governments and agencies. The CRTC plays a key supporting role by requiring cellphone providers, cable and satellite TV companies, and radio and television broadcasters to distribute public alerts.
As part of this consultation, the CRTC is seeking public input on:
- barriers to alert accessibility,
- the languages in which alerts are provided,
- measures to monitor the system’s status more effectively, and
- ensuring alerts reach all Canadians, including those in rural and remote areas.
Due to ongoing challenges with rural broadband and cellular coverage in rural Alberta, many residents rely on cable, satellite TV, or radio to receive emergency alerts. According to the CRTC, only 78.2% of rural communities have full speed broadband access in 2025, and it is important that the rural perspective is heard during this consultation.
The CRTC is accepting comments and submissions until October 14, 2025. All comments will form part of the public record and will inform the CRTC’s decision. Those interested can participate by:
- Reviewing the Notice of Consultation,
- filling out the online Intervention Comment form,
- sharing your views on the CRTC Conversations platform,
- writing to the Secretary General, CRTC, Gatineau, Quebec K1A 0N2, or
- sending a fax to 819-994-0218.
RMA is evaluating providing a written submission to the CRTC, and will share updates with members.
Joseph Kay
Policy Advisor
587.689.5484
joseph@rmalberta.com
Warren Noga
Manager of Policy & Research
825.319.2285
warren@rmalberta.com