Priority Access for Dialing (PAD)

PAD Program – Sunsetting as of December 31, 2010

The Priority Access for Dialing program has ended as of December 31, 2010. With the evolution of telecommunications networks, new technology being implemented by the telephone companies no longer supported the delivery of PAD. As a result, the major telcos, which had been participating in the PAD program on a voluntary basis and offering PAD free of charge, advised Industry Canada that they would no longer provide this service after December 31, 2010.

Industry Canada has advised program participants through their Emergency Telecommunications Data System (ETDS) group managers, business continuity planning units, provincial emergency management organizations, and other stakeholder groups.

• Questions and Answers
• IC Communication Letter
• Wireless Priority Service

Phone numbers which are currently receiving the PAD service will continue to do so after the sunset date if equipment and configuration remain compatible, however PAD service performance will not be guaranteed. Please ensure your Business Continuity Planning organization is aware of this change, so that the sunsetting of the PAD program is accounted for in your emergency telecommunications or continuity of communications plan.

Industry Canada continues to support Wireless Priority Service (WPS) which greatly improves your chances of placing a wireless call during times of network congestion. This valued priority service is offered for a fee by two wireless service providers in Canada. You may continue to order WPS through Industry Canada’s online system, the ETDS.