ASL – Summary of the CRTC’s 2025 updated Video Relay Service (VRS) Policy (1 of 2)
Video is also available in Langue des signes québecoise (LSQ).
Video Transcript
Introduction
Video relay service (VRS) is a basic telecommunications service that enables sign language users and voice telephone users to communicate with each other. VRS was launched in Canada in 2016 to help empower Canadians who are Deaf and whose primary language is American Sign Language (ASL) or Langue des signes québécoise (LSQ). It provides users with more personal freedom and independence to communicate in real time with family and friends. It also helps facilitate making everyday calls and has a positive impact in the areas of employment, education, healthcare, and social connectedness.
The Commission launched a review of its VRS policy in 2021. The review addressed the structure and mandate of the Canadian Administrator of VRS (CAV), Inc. (hereafter, the CAV) to ensure that it continues to operate, maintain, and enhance VRS so that it meets the needs of its users now and into the future. Through the review, the Commission has built a robust public record that includes comments from a variety of individuals and groups, such as VRS users, the CAV, telecommunications service providers, and organizations representing the Deaf and hard of hearing community, including the Deafblind community.
Today, the Commission confirms that VRS remains a basic telecommunications service that must be made available in Canada. It has updated its VRS policy to ensure the service is more inclusive and diverse and to enhance its usability. The Commission is also giving the CAV the flexibility and resources to enhance the service to meet the ever-evolving needs of its users and to make use of advances in technology. In addition, the Commission is ensuring that the CAV continues to be transparent and accountable to the Commission and Canadians who rely on it.
The Commission’s continued support for VRS builds on its work on accessibility and advances the principles of the Accessible Canada Act by eliminating barriers to participation in Canadian society. The Commission’s support also responds to the unique needs and cultural considerations of Canadians whose primary languages are ASL and LSQ. This regulatory policy reflects the Commission’s commitment to advancing reconciliation by including Indigenous peoples’ perspectives and lived experiences in VRS.
The minimum requirements imposed by the Commission on the CAV are described in the next video.
The Commission confirms that VRS remains a basic telecommunications service that must be made available in Canada. It has updated its VRS policy to ensure the service is more inclusive and diverse and to enhance its usability. The Commission is also giving the CAV the flexibility and resources to enhance the service to meet the ever-evolving needs of its users and to make use of advances in technology. In addition, the Commission is ensuring that the CAV continues to be transparent and accountable to the Commission and Canadians who rely on it.
Full policy on Video Relay Services.
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