EON

On August 26, 2009 three telemarketing companies were fined, by the Canadian Radio-Television and Telecommunications Commission, for not complying with rules associated with the National Do Not Call List. The purpose of the DNCL is to give consumers relief from unwanted telemarketing calls. These three companies were made aware of their violation, but refused to change the way they did business.

When a company violates the rules of the list they can be charged up to $15,000 for each call made. Individuals can get fined up to $1,500 for each call made.

Rob Sugar, who owns a weight loss company, was fined $4,000, and Roofing by Peerless Mason Ltd. along with Waterproofing by Peerless Mason Inc. were fined $10,000 a piece. They have 30 days to pay the fine, otherwise they will be charged interest, and the debt will be registered with the Federal Court.

The names of telemarketing companies are never disclosed to the public unless the company refuses to pay the fine, or if they contest the charges. In this case Rob Sugar refused to pay the fine, and the owner of the other two companies contested the charges.

The CRTC was criticized for going after smaller companies instead of bigger companies, who do the most damage. The three companies that were fined sent out faxes to people that were on the DNCL. Critics feel that this is only a minor annoyance compared to what bigger companies do. Consumers are being constantly harassed over the phone by these bigger companies. The CRTC says that about 700 other telemarketing companies are under investigation as well.