Comments Received on Gazette Notice No. DGRB-001-01

A Proposal to Grant Full Operating Privileges in all Amateur Radio Frequency Bands Below 30 MHz to Amateur Radio Operators Holding a 5 word per minute (w.p.m.) Morse Code Qualification

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COMMENTAIRES REÇUS À LA SUITE DE L'AVIS DE LA GAZETTE DGRB-001-01

Proposition visant à accorder aux radioamateurs titulaires d'un certificat avec compétence en morse de 5 mots/minute (m.p.m.) de pleins privilèges d'exploitation dans toutes les bandes de fréquences du service de radioamateur au-dessous de 30 MHz

Messieurs,

Détenant une licence d'exploitation d'une station de radio amateur depuis près de 45 ans, je pense avoir le vécu et l'expérience pour donner une opinion éclairée sur le sujet de la réduction des exigences en code Morse prévue à CIR-2.

Industrie Canada semble se fier aux affirmations de RAC (Radio Amateurs du Canada), qui affirme faussement et arbitrairement que la majorité des radioamateurs au Canada appuient ce changement. Etant moi-même membre de RAC, j'ai participé activement aux discussions et forums sur l'air et par Internet générées par ce sujet brûlant. Sujet tout à fait brûlant, dois-je dire, car l'intérêt suscité par des opinions très divergentes sur le sujet a atteint un niveau inégalé, de l'aveu même des officiels de RAC. Si les radioamateurs canadiens croyaient vraiment que le code Morse et les examens qui s'y rattachent étaient dépassés, jamais l'opposition très importante qui s'est développée contre ce projet de réduction n'aurait atteint un tel sommet.

Le soi-disant sondage de RAC, qui ne représente en tant qu'association qu'un très faible pourcentage des radioamateurs canadiens, n'avait AUCUNE valeur statistique et scientifique. Fait sans contrôle d'identité et de répétitivité, ce n'était en fait qu'un "os" jeté à ceux qui, comme moi, voulaient savoir autre chose que les opinions personnelles d'une poignée d'amateurs à la tête de RAC. J'affirme que les opinions de ces personnes étaient déjà établies bien à l'avance, et qu'ils étaient fort aise de se faire appuyer par les opinions de ce "sondage", qui étaient surtout celles de radioamateurs déjà "sans code" et opérant surtout en VHF et UHF.

Sur le fond de la question, le fait que le code Morse n'est plus employé dans d'autre services n'est absolument pas un argument valable. La radioamateur a une vie qui lui est propre, indépendemment des instances qui en assurent la surveillance et la règlementation. Nous en sommes venus à posséder nos propres exigences et traditions aux cours des années, et c'est précicément ce qui nous distingue des autres services comme le SRG (CB), par exemple. Le code Morse fait partie intégrante de ces traditions, et réduire à l'excès les exigences en ce sens viole de plein fouet les principes de base qui font de nous radioamateurs ce que nous sommes.

En tant que mode de communication de base irremplaçable dans les conditions difficiles et lorsque les modes de communication dits "modernes" sont inexistants ou font défaut, le code Morse International doit être préservé à tout prix car, de l'avis même des autorités internationales, aucune autre instance que nous les radioamateurs ne sera habilité à pouvoir le faire dans le futur. Les radioamateurs doivent de plus en plus devenir les gardiens et les continuateurs de ce mode de communication, et c'est pourquoi la règlementation future doit tendre à favoriser cette vocation dans le futur, non chercher à l'éliminer.

Donc, non seulement j'affirme ma ferme opposition au projet de réduction de 12 mpm à 5 mpm, mais j'estime que le système actuel devrait être remplacé par un retour à un examen unique et pour TOUS les radioamateurs futurs d'un examen en code Morse à 10 mpm, et cela sans exception, avec pleins privilèges immédiats sur toutes les bandes de fréquences et modes d'émission.

Et, ah oui, les radioamateurs canadiens n'ont que faire des positions prises par d'autres pays en ce sens. Nous sommes souvent considérés comme des "leaders" dans beaucoup d'autres domaines, et il est insultant de penser que nous devons absolument être à la remorque d'autre pays, aussi importants soient-ils, quand nous avons des choses à décider chez nous.

Radiomateurement vôtre,

Serge Langlois

Greetings.

I am in full agreement with the proposal to grant full access privileges to holders of a 5 word per minute CW certificate. I, along with some others, proposed at the last RAC annual meeting that I would like to see two possible paths to obtain full privileges - one being the 12 word per minute CW certificate, and the other being the Advanced Amateur certificate. In either case, the operator has done the extra work to earn the privileges. Maybe we could propose that anyone obtaining either 5 word per minute CW certification or the advanced amateur certification qualify for full privileges. (I gotta learn how to spell that) This would recognize that some people are technically oriented and others are operationally oriented, with skills and capabilities lying in different areas, but sharing the same hobby.

Tim Smith

I totally agree with the 5 wpm, for all hf band requirements. The sooner the better. VA7GS

RE: "Notice No. DGRB-001-01 A Proposal to Grant Full Operating Privileges in all Amateur Radio Frequency Bands Below 30 MHz to Amateur Radio Operators Holding a 5 word per minute (w.p.m.) Morse Code Qualification"

To the Chief, Authorization,

Change seems to be happening at a greater pace in today's world. With today's rapid advancement in communication related technology, many Amateur Radio Operators realize that adjustments need to be made for operator requirements. There are many new potential modes of communications for Amateur Radio Operators to experiment with. We need to have an appropriate balance, respecting the past and also looking to the future for this most enjoyable hobby. I believe that this proposal does, just that. I fully support the proposal to amend the RIC-2 so that full operating privileges in all amateur bands are granted to amateur radio operators holding the basic and 5 w.p.m. Morse code qualification. Change is difficult for all of us, and I realize that there are some operators who don't fully agree with this proposal. Morse code will always be a useful medium of communication, whether used by the conventional means or via electronic translation.

David E. Orbell

Re: Amendments to the Technical Requirements set out in the Radiocommunication Information Circular 2 (RIC-2)

I fully support the 12 W.P.M. requirement being reduced to 5 W.P.M. I am concerned that the future of amateur radio is going to be limited at best, unless this action is taken - and soon.

Sincerely,

Joop Cousteau hello : VE7OHR will reply to the survey I think it should be dropped completely and have another mechanisms in place to enjoy hf privileges Dear Sir,

I have read with interest your proposal on the 5wpm requirement. I would like to relate to you a personal experience. I am a Canadian expatriate who has left Canada a few years ago but who has the firm intent of coming back in a few years. During the duration of my absence, I was successful in obtaining by equivalence a licence to operate in the countries that I was working in. This was always due to the good reputation of the Canadian certificate that I was holding.

Latest exemple, I am currently in Belgium where I operate a station under the callsign ON4FLT. This allows me to stay in contact with fellow Canadians at home. The paperwork with the Belgium authorities was held at minimum since Belgium complies with the CEPT recommendation TR61-01 and 02. My license was granted within a week. Belgium has currently a requirement of 10 wpm. I do not know if my licence would have been recognized by equivalence with only a 5 wpm endorsement.

Whatever you decide, let me suggest that you harmonize with the main countries following the CEPT recommendations (as this is the gauge acknowledged by a majority of licensing authorities) in order the facilitate the life of the many Canadian expatriates who treasure their Canadian Amateur certificate as a license to keep a vital link of communication with the home country.

Thank you for reading this,

Respecfully,

Patrick Merat

Re: Notice No. DGRB-001-01 — A Proposal to Grant Full Operating Privileges in all Amateur Radio Frequency Bands Below 30 MHz to Amateur Radio Operators Holding a 5 word per minute (w.p.m.) Morse Code Qualification

Publication Date: 2001-01-06

Dear Sir,

In view of the fact that "A number of administrations have proposed that a review of the international regulations governing the Amateur Services be placed on the agenda of the World Radio Conference scheduled for 2003" I feel that your proposed actions are premature, and would ask you to await the decisions of the WRC.

Also, I find no replacement qualification requirement for the proposed elimination of 12 wpm in order for Hams to obtain "full operating privileges" - and fear a significant drop in quality of the Amateur Service. We all know what has happened to Citizens Band (CB) radio operation.

I therefore ask you to withdraw your proposal

Sincerely VE3PSW

It is about time the requirement for 12 wpm morse code be removed from qualifications. I support the gazetted proposal by IC. Hopefully once the sixty days for comments expire the process will be speedily completed by IC. In other words perhaps within 90 days it will be completed.

Yours truly Doug Pichette

Watering down the requirements for HF operation is the only way that I can describe what's happening in HF operation worldwide. All the citizen band operators must have strong lobbying powers to government. Listen in to the cb band right now. Hear that? Disgusting isn't it? That's what needs to be prevented on HF. Are Morse Code requirements the only way to do that? No...... but I haven't heard any genuine replacement form of testing where the future operator needs to work to obtain his/her qualifications. The present testing for the basic exam is a joke.

If your true intention is to eliminate an outdated mode from being the dertiminant on whether a person gets full HF priviliges, then please come up with a tough set of exams to replace it. Otherwise this whole thing can only be seen as a move to further deregulate another aspect of government, resulting in less than desirable results.

Regards.

Brent R

Hello to Chief, Authorization

It is now common knowledge that several countries have eliminated code requirements above 5 wpm for access to the Amateur HF frequencies. In light of this and also in light of the fact that CW and the Morse Code are becoming less commonly used in the Amateur world as other digital modes begin to be used more, I concur that the 5 wpm level is probably the highest level that should be manditory. Amateurs wishing to use morse will continue with their studies in this mode on their own, improving their skills without furthur regulatory hurdles.

Despite this I recomend that 5 wpm proficiency should only give the privilages that they currently provide plus cw operation on other HF bands, that is that 5 wpm should should provide complete access to 160, 80 and 10 metre bands and CW access to the other HF (40,30,20,17,15,12 metre) bands

To get full access to the other bands an amateur should have to get their Advanced qualification. this would encourage a higher level of technical knowledge amongst Amateur Operators as they would need a higer level of technical knowledge to pass this exam. It would also encourage more real operating using morse code without forcing this to be so through Morse Exams that are often a fear of new Hams. with CW access to all bands with a 5 wpm endorsement Canadian Amateurs may find more Hams on the HF frequencies using slow code and this would encourage the use of morse amongst new Morse code operators who rarely get on when all they hear is 25 wpm+ signals that are mechanically or electronicaly assisted.

I hope that this type of structuring takes place as it would promote Amateurs improving their skills and not simply promote passing exams. The current system and the one proposed by RAC seems to promote the passing of Morse exams which are often quickly put into the farthest reaches of memory once passed. at the same time the Advanced qualification is currently only necessary to those wishing to build their own equipment, run more than 250 watts or sponser a repeater. This is a small segment of the Ham population and yet I think that the knowledge obtained when studying for the advanced exam is far more unversially important than just for this small group.

I hope that you consider my thoughts on this. Thanks for your time

73 de Paul Davidson Amateur Radio Station

I feel that the reduction of the Morse requirement from 12 to 5 w.p.m is an first step in solving the dilemma that the Amateur community is facing. We need to renew interest in Amateur Radio, and the reduction of the code speed will allow those with sound technical skills (now developing from interests in computers as opposed to someone like myself who's technical skills developed from an interest in Shortwave Radio) to merge their interests with new and exciting radio and communications technology such as PSK31 and other digital modes. I am not in favour of dropping code entirely, but the reduction to 5 WPM will allow many to enjoy and develop our fascinating hobby to new and greater heights. The Basic "no-code" has not turned 2 meters into CB radio, the quality of our operators and those around them has seen to that. Therefore, we should not fear our H.F. bands turning into a platform for unqualified operators, but instead we should welcome those new to H.F. and encourage and "Elmer" them as others did to us when we first started.

Sincerely Sean Welsh

While I agree with lowering the cw requirements to 5 wpm in order to having full priviledges on the bands below 30mhz, I do not agree with not having the applicants subjected to the written testing that was associated with the 12wpm testing process.

I don't think it is in our best interest to lower the theory testing standard and have less knowledgable amateurs when it comes to electronics theory and operating procedures and rules and practices.

Klaus Rung

Avis no DGRB-001-01 —— Proposition visant àà accorder aux radioamateurs titulaires d’’un certificat avec compéétence en morse de 5 mots/minute (m.p.m.) de pleins privilèèges d’’exploitation dans toutes les bandes de frééquences du service de radioamateur au-dessous de 30- MHz

Je suis en faveur pour avoir pleins privilèèges d’’exploitation dans toutes les bandes de frééquence avec seulement 5 mots/minute (m.p.m.) en morse. Je suis mêême en faveur pour l'éélimination du code morse. Si j'aurais besoin de faire du morse, je connecte le radio àà l'ordinateur et le travail se ferais 100 fois plus vite et sans erreurs......

Eric Paquin

Proposition visant àà accorder aux radioamateurs titulaires d’’un certificat avec compéétence en morse de 5 mots/minute (m.p.m.) de pleins privilèèges d’’exploitation dans toutes les bandes de frééquences du service de radioamateur au-dessous de 30- MHz

En tant que jeune radioamateur posséédant uniquement ma compéétence de base, j'aurais tous les avantages d'accepter cette proposition. Ceci me permettrait d'accééder plus rapidement aux bandes qui ne me sont pas autoriséées pour l'instant.

Au moment que j'ai déébutéé comme radioamateur, je connaissais la rééglèèmentation en cours et je l'ai acceptéée. Je voyais les privilèèges d'exploitation dans toutes les bandes de frééquences du service de radioamteur au-dessous de 30-MHz comme un accomplissement d'un plus ou moins long travail de la part des radioamateurs.

ÀÀ ce moment làà, nous pouvions parler de PRIVILÈÈGE. Oui, certainement tout le monde pouvait se voir accorder ce PRIVILÈÈGE, mais il devait travailler pour l'obtenir.

Si cette proposition de modifier les normes sur l'exploitation de radio devait passer, elle changerait la signification de PRIVILÈÈGE.

L'accèès àà ces bandes est préésentement bien encadréé, mais le sera-t-il toujours dans le futur, si la proposition devait passer ?

C'est pour cette raison que je n'accepte pas cette proposition de changement des normes sur l'exploitation des stations radio autoriséées dans le service de radioamateur (CIR-2).

Louis Ranger

Chief, Authorization, Spectrum Management Operations Directorate Notice No. DGRB-001-01 - A Proposal to Grant Full Operating Privileges in all Amateur Radio Frequency Bands Below 30 MHz to Amateur Radio Operators Holding a 5 word per minute (w.p.m.) Morse Code Qualification

On the purposed move to reduce the requirement of the 12 WPM morsecode test. We are against it. We believe that it truly represents a dedication to the hobby. Although none of us mentioned in this letter currently hold the coveted morsecode portion of the licence. We believe it serves a greater purpose for our radio fellowship. Respect to those before us that have dedicated the time and effort to obtain that level of proficiency in morsecode.

Maintain the higher than required standard for Canadian Amateur Radio Operators. We as as Canadians deserve a chance to be the best.

This opinion is one of consensus of my family whom are all radio operators:

VE5RUS

VE5BRY VA5ROB

VE5PAW

PS: Please don't sell off any more of our allotted frequency spectrums to the commercial users either.

Concernant la nouvelle proposition sur la radioamateur,

Je suggere l elimination complete du code morse pour. un plein previlege sur tout le spectre radioamateur.

Le morse c est du passer... Allons de l avant...

A tous ceux qui veulent continuer a utiliser le morse comme mode de transmission pouraient le faire librement, et ce seras les pioniers du morse radioamateur d amerique.

Richard St-Onge

As an active radio amateur, I feel that CW is a mode for some people to use, just as 'snail mail' is one of a number of ways for people to communicate.

CW may never die out completely nor will 'snail mail' die out completely, but one should have the option to choose.

Most people can learn the code and become proficient at 5 wpm, however many do not have the desire to proceed further to develop the speed for 12 wpm or above. Many others are unable ot even learn the code and get to the 5 wpm threshold without years of practice, but their interest in the amateur radio hobby may be as great as any of those who can converse ant 30 or 50 wpm code.

I feel this will provide many more people (including myself) to have the privilege of using the mid-bands and explore the world in a way which would otherwise be impossible. respectively submitted

Keith Drysdale

Comments on DGRB-001-01 Published January 6 2001

Amendments to the technical requirements

Removal of the 12 words per minute cw testing in Canada. Here are my comments:

Considering the fact that other countries have done something about that problem, I think that Candada is overdue for doing something too. The way things are going now, no one will be on the HF bands in a few years because most new hams see absolutely no reason to learn what they see as an archaic mode of communication, just to get some spectrum use.

I am entirely in accord in removing the 12 wpm cw requirement to get full hf access because I really don't see any pertinence in requiring something that most hams don't use anyway. It has kept lots of hams including myself from fully enjoying hf. I do love to use PSK 31 on 10 meters but that's only in the daytime. Having access to 20 and 30 meters would sure let me enjoy it a lot more.

I think that Canada should support the complete removal of morse as a requirement when it is discussed in 2003. Testing for an amateur radio license should be adapted to our times and requirements should evaluate what a ham really needs to know to be a good ham. How fast you can discern the meaning of random tones has nothing to do with being a good ham and should never have had the importance it has now.

Ham radio needs to move forward in this new millenium and a lot of things should change if it is to survive as a public service and great hobby. I commend this move by Industry Canada and hope that the problem will be solved soon. I am not against cw and envy those hams who enjoy it but please don't try to impose it on everyone. Thanks for letting me comment. I am writing this in English even if I am French because I want my comments to be read by the most hams possible.

73 and great hamming to all.

Michel Morin

I heartily endorse the 5 WPM reduction and further support the elimination of CODE altogether for Amateur Radio privileges. Dennis Furnell

I am in total agreement with the proposed change to allow amateurs holding basic and 5 wpm morse code to operate on all amateur bands.

This refects the fact that to operate packet, pactor and the like, morse code is not needed above a certain . This will help amateur radio grow.

Don Taylor

Attention: Chief, Authorization Industry Canada

I have read the text of the proposal and support the recommended changes to make HF Amateur Radio Service operations permissible with successful testing at 5 WPM. Furthermore, I believe the testing should place more emphasis on operating procedures, including on-air operating courtesy.

I feel this is a positive step to increase the numbers of new ARS operators and help promote amateur radio as a whole.

Al Niittymaa I wholly endorse this proposal.

However, as a designated examiner, I also recommend updated exam questions and a more rigorous examination of technical competence including an understanding of various analog and digital modulation concepts.

I would also recommend that the candidate be required to demonstrate "on the air" competence in a manner patterned from the Restricted Maritime Licence.

Bill Moore

I support the change to 5 wpm Gordon Parsons

In reference to notice #dgrb-001-01 dated 2001-01-06 I'm in full agreement with this change John Gallant

I totally agree with the proposed change. I presently hold both basic and advanced ratings and in fact am working on getting the 12 WPM in order gain access to the HF bands. Frankly I fail to see why Morse code should be a requirement for any privileges as it is now just another operating mode. If not for the Morse requirement I would have gotten into Ham radio 40 years ago.

Jim Peerenboom

Notice No. DGRB-001-01 Title: A Proposal to Grant Full Operating Privileges in all Amateur Radio Frequency Bands Below 30 MHz to Amateur Radio Operators Holding a 5 word per minute (w.p.m.) Morse Code Qualification Publication Date: 2001-01-06

I am fully in favour of dropping the 12 w.p.m. Morse code requirements for privileges in the bands below 30 MHz. As with everything, we progress with time, and we must progress with this as well. Morse code is just one of several modes of operation in the Amateur Radio service. There is no requirement to show competency in any other mode of operation in order to obtain a licence or to upgrade a licence. So why should there be any requirement at all for Morse code? It is an obsolete mode of operation and is no longer a valid requirement.

Leonard G. Brooker

In view of the proposal to allow operating privrileges for 5wpm amateurs on the bands below 30mhz; it is a must if we are to maintain a sufficient number of people interested in the hobby to ensure our bands are not swallowed up commercial interests and outband operators. The move to follow this reduction in code speed is an international trend being followed by many ITU members. I fell that this will help ensure the future of our hobby and hopefully may even spark a renewed interested for many of our basic only hams to upgrade their tickets. Sincerely, Dana Rushton

Dear Industry Canada: I agree 100% on yours and RAC's proposal to amended RIC-2 so that full operating privileges in all amateur bands will be granted to amateur radio operators holding the basic and 5 w.p.m. morse code qualification.I believe this is a great step forward for young people to get into amateur radio.This will also bring us in line with the rest of the international community who have gone to 5 w.p.m. code or who are considering the move.Best regards.....Randy Czepil

Chief, Authorization I am in support of dropping the 12WPM requirement for full operating privileges on the HF bands in Canada for Canadian amateurs. I also agree with keeping the 5WPM requirement for any operation below 30Mhz.

There is one major condition with this proposal that I must voice that should be implemented at the same time. That condition is that the written requirements be modified to make it more difficult to obtain a pass mark on the exam. I think there should be additional emphasis on the electronic theory as well as *much* more emphasis on the rules and regulations and operating practices.

The greatest value of marks from the exam should be reflected from a *thorough* knowledge of proper procedures in operating practices. There must also be more time spent with the Rules and Regulations of operation in Canada.

To date there a great many amateurs that have obtained a certificate of proficiency who have little idea of how to operate an amateur station properly. There has to be something done to keep the "CBers" attitude and aptitude out of the amateur bands.

With this condition satisfied, make the HF bands available to as many as possible.

Thank you

Keith Tutton

Sir,

Being a active amateur radio operator I was sad to see that the requirement for full HF privileges is being granted to people with 5wpm cw, I believe that a new technical exam should also be introduced or make it so that you need 5wpm cw and the advanced exam for full HF privileges, this would be inline with other countries.

Thank you 73 Paul

Dear Sir

Re:Notice No. DGRB-001-01 — A Proposal to Grant Full Operating Privileges in all Amateur Radio Frequency Bands Below 30 MHz to Amateur Radio Operators Holding a 5 word per minute (w.p.m.) Morse Code Qualification

I have no bias one way or the other about the 12 w.p.m requirement. I do however have a comment about the logic used to arrive at 5 w.p.m.

The stated reason in your notice for dropping the 12 wpm CW requirement is "...Their view is that CW is an outdated modulation technique and that proficiency in the Morse code should no longer be the basis upon which amateurs are granted enhanced operating privileges."

If this is indeed the case, why bother with maintaining 5 w.p.m? Why not drop all morse code requirements?

Wayne Hodgins

Dear sir In response to the reduction of the requirement from 12 p.m.p to 5 w.p.m to access the lower frequency's below 30mhz.

12 w.p.m has been used as a stepping stone to achieve in the amateur community. I feel it should be left as is.

Following the U.S.A. This is my opinion

Leslie Barclay

Monsieur,

Veullez prendre note que je suis en desaccord avec toute proposition visant a reduire les exigences des competences de l'operateur pour l'exploitation de stations radio dans toutes les bandes de frequences du service de radioamateur au dessous de 30 MHz.

Permettez-moi de remettre en question certaines affirmations contenues dans l'avis pre-cite:

" La technique de modulation en ondes entretenues est perimee"

Rien de plus faux, la technique de modulation en ondes entretenues demeure, meme a ces jours, la technique la plus fiable lorsque les conditions de propagations sont telles que toutes les autres techniques de modulation ne parviennent pas a permettre l'etablissement de liaisons hertziennes.

La technique de modulation en ondes entretenues par le code Morse demeure une methode beaucoup plus efficace au niveau spectral que la voix meme en mode Bande Laterale Unique. Le spectre est une resource limitee que l'on doit continuer d'economiser.

"Compte tenu de l'elimination (recente) de l'utilisation du Morse dans les..."

Le fait que les communications maritimes ainsi que les organisations gouvernementales aient maintenant acces aux services par satellite n'a aucun rapport avec les besoins des communications radioamateurs, et ce, surtout dans des conditions d'urgence ou toutes les methodes autre que la technique de modulation en ondes entretenues par le code Morse de modulation s'averent inutilisables.

D'apres RAC, "Il est evident qu'une majorite des radioamateurs canadiens sont en faveur de l'elimination du test de 12 mots/minute"

Je doute du bien-fonde de cette affirmation, RAC represente plutot les interets de clubs de radioamateurs plutot que les interets des radioamateurs eux-memes.

Il est evident qu'une telle ralaxation des criteres d'admissibilite au certificat de competence de radioamateur contribuerait a augmenter le nombre de cotisations a ces clubs en augmentant le nombre de candidats aux cours de radioamateurs. Par contre, je crains qu'une telle relaxation des criteres d'amissibilite ne reduise la qualite des operateurs ayant access au memes privileges que ceux accordes aux operateurs ayant reussi le test de 12 mots/minute.

Seule une vraie consultation en bonne et due forme de tous les amateurs canadiens aurait force dans un tel cas. Il y a apparence de conflit d'interet dans celle conduite par RAC.

"L'acceptation de cette proposition donnerait aux radioamateurs canadiens des provileges d'exploitation similaires a ceux qui sont donnes acuellement aux radioamateurs americains qui reussissent un test de Morse a 5 mots/minute."

Justement, le mauvais comportement notoire des radioamateurs americains n'est pas un exemple a suivre, le Canada n'a pas besoin d'un tel nivellement par la base. Les radioamateurs canadiens doivent demeurer un exemple de professionalisme dans leurs operations dans les bandes de frequences du service de radioamateur au dessous de 30 MHz, la ou ils representent le Canada aupres de la communaute mondiale des radioamateurs.

COMMENTAIRES PERSONNELS

L'apprentissage du code Morse a 12 mots/minute requert sans aucun doute, un effort et une grande determination de la part de tout candidat. C'est ce meme effort qui contribue au developpement d'un grand respect de tout nouvel operateur envers les autres radioamateurs ainsi qu'envers les lois sur la radiocommunications et les bonnes pratiques operationelles. Le SRG est un autre bon exemple de ce que le laxisme peut entrainer comme chaos sur les ondes.

J'a obtenu mon certificat de radio amateur de base en 1958 a l'age de 16 ans, apres deux ans d'efforts et autant d'echecs (du code Morse a 10 mots/minute) aux examens du "Ministere des Transports". Je n'oublirai jamais le sentiment de bonheur extreme et de fierete ressentis lors de ma reussite a mon troisieme essai. Ce sont ces efforts et ma determination envers l'obtention de mon certificat de radioamateur qui ont permis d'acquerir un si grand respect pour tout ce que represente la radioamateur.

Je fais partie du groupe de radioamateurs de la region de Montreal qui ont reussi la premiere transmission de donnees par paquets. J'ai obtenu le certificat numerique de radioamateur numero 8 decerne par Communications Canada. Il est signe par le Dr. John de Mercado, sous Ministre a cette epoque, ce dernier avait ajoute un gros "felicitations et merci pour votre contribution a l'avancement de l'etat de l'art" a cote de sa signature. C'est grace a la radioamateur et tout de qu'elle represente pour moi depuis le tout debut qu'encore aujourdh'ui, je travaille a l'avancement des technologies de radio numerique pour une des rares entreprises canadiennes qui oeuvre dans ce domaine.

Mon intervention pour preserver le Morse est un plaidoyer en faveur du maintient d'un art et du repect d'une tradition seculaire au sein d'une communaute dediee au service de la communaute, c'est l'ame de la culture de la radioamateur que vous mettez en peril par cette proposition.

Ceux qui desirent operer des stations sans avoir a demontrer leurs competences en tant qu'operateurs n'ont qu'a faire l'achat de radios domestiques recemment approuves par Industrie Canada.

Je vous prie de reconsiderer vos plans a la lumiere des commentaires et craintes ci-haut exprimes.

Salutations distinguees, Jacques Orsali

I do agree that the 12 words a minute should be dropped a.s.a.p and that 5 words a minute would allow full privileges on all hf portion of the band.We would have a lot more activity on the bands and that would be a lot more interesting and also more enjoyable

73 va3-tvo

Bonjour, je sais perdre mon temps mais je vais tout de mêême vous faire part de mes observations sur le changement que vous vous apprêêtez àà faire en accordant a un amateur posséédent la compéétence de BASE avec un code morse àà 5 MPM d'utiliser tout le spectre de la bande amateur sous les 30 mhz et dans TOUS les modes... Un amateur posséédent un code morse àà 5 MPM et une license de BASE n'ont pas pas les compéétenses pour faire faççe àà des problèèmes de brouillage. Souvent un amateur qui utilisait sa station radio durant un an pouvait accééder àà un niveau de 12 mpm et il avait ainsi plus d'expéérience.

J'ai éétéé professeur de code morse et je possèède un certificat d'officier radio commercial et je pense savoir de que l'expéérience pour devenir un bon amateur çça s'obstient pas en rééduisant les normes...

Le gros problèème c'est vous autres !

Si vous feriez ce changement mais que vous seriez toujours impliquéé "dans la radio amateur" en fesant une surveillance et en géérant les problèèmes reliéés aux interféérences je pourrais comprendre ce changement mais c'est pas le cas.

"Vous nous avez abandonnéé"

C'est la fin de la radioamateur. Vous réépondez aux attentes des gens qui ont des radios àà vendre. C'est la mêême chose dans le domaine commerciale. Tout est déérééglementéé et il est possible de voir le "bordel" que vous causez. Il y a jamais eu autant d'interféérence dans la bande "VHF", "UHF". Dééjàà votre déérééglementation de 1990 a fait des ravages en abaissant la qualitéé des radioamateurs sur le spectre et maintenant vous achevez le travail.

Si vous voulez abandonner le code morse et bien au moins éétablissez un certificat ou un candidat n'aura pas àà apprendre par coeur les questions qui sont vendus librement. Hey! il y a une gang de gens qui ne savent mêême pas l'utilisation d'une réésistance et qui sont amateurs. C'est le réésultat de votre bon travail.

Je me demande pouquoi vous gardez le 5 mpm ? Aprèès avoir ééliminéé les droits àà payer àà chaque annéée et en ayant perdu le contrôôle sur les lettres d'appels la suite logique serait de publier en premièème page de tout les jounaux du pays que maintenant la bande de CB est partout sous les 30 mhz et finisons-en !

Bien oui vous me direz que RAC a fait des demandes. Ils font des sondages sur leur site WEB et vlan! ceci vient force de loi.

Vous auriez pu nous envoyer un sondage àà nous les amateurs ayant droit d'utiliser la portion sous les 30 mhz pour voir ce qu'en en pense mais non c'est impossible....vous nous avez larguéé !

Un si beau service qui compte une histoire riche avec des opéérateurs amateurs mais tellement professionnel qui pouvait guider des nouveaux qui avait fortement travailléé pour obtenir un droit d'opéérer.

Je réépèète savoir perdre mon temps en ce moment mais vu que c'est le dernier contact que j'ai avec vous je vais terminer en levant mon chapeau pour les inspecteurs radios d'un passéé encore réécent et qui avait àà coeur le service amateur et qui sont tristes j'en suis certain du beau gââchis que vous vous apprêêtez àà faire.

VIVE ce que la radioamateur a éétéé !

Aurevoir et àà la prochaine !

René

Dear Chief, Authorization

I am fully in favour of the Industry Canada proposal that the Radio Information Circular (RIC) -2, Standards for the Operation of Radio Stations in the Amateur Radio Service be amended to remove the requirement that amateur radio operators hold the 12 w.p.m Morse code qualification to operate an amateur radio station on frequencies below 30 MHz.

Full operating privileges in all amateur bands should be granted to amateur radio operators holding the basic and 5 w.p.m. morse code qualification has been, or is being done, in the USA and other countries.

Please adopt this change.

Regards

Terrance A. Allison

I just heard about, and applaud your consideration of reducing the code speed requirement for radio amateurs to 5wpm. I believe the requirement for a higher speed needlessly and unfairly excludes amateurs from privileges they deserve. Some people just have unsurmountable difficulties processing code over 10wpm. I was originally licensed as an amateur in the States at the age of 13 in 1957. I could easily pass the General exam then but just could not get my receive speed over 10wpm. As a consequence I was relegated to the status of a technician, which at the time provided very few opportunities. As a result I let that license lapse and it was over 40 years later that I decided to get my ham license again. A year ago I got my Cdn Basic and a few months later the US Tech. I recently passed the US General and will take their Extra as well. I plan to take the Cdn Advanced in about a month and will attempt the code at 12wpm. Code instruction methods and equipment are so much better that they were in '57 I might be able to do it. If not, I hope that you do reduce the limit to 5wpm.

The only thing I would add, is that, as soon as permissable by international treaty, the CW requirement be dropped completely. I don't think that OPERATING using CW should be constrained as long as it is popular. However I do think that better knowledge of digital modes like packet and PSK31 should be tested in the future. And I would like to see an 'Extra'- level exam in Canada, even if it did NOT result in any additional operating privileges.

Thank you for your attention.

VE7VIE/KD7IGX ex WV2ECZ

To: Chief, Authorization I have been following this issue for some time now.

I believe the change will generate new interest for dedicated operators whose privileges were restricted to portions of the HF bands. I believe this is a positive move forward for the hobby and I definitely support the change.

Regards,

Bob Fletcher

ATTN: CHIEF:AUTHORIZATION

For the reasons summarized in the Canada Gazette notice re. the downgrading of the CW requirement for full HF privileges, I support the proposal. Decreasing the requirement from 12 WPM to 5WPM will encourage upgrading of no-code licensees and promote use of our amateur HF bands.

Sincerely Jeff Richardson

I would like to express my opinion of support for the change to a single, 5wpm standard for all HF operating priviledges. I am a 5 wpm code license holder and currently operate on 80 and 16 meters. I do not use code and like the vast majority of amateurs I know do not ever intend to. Knowing 7 wpm more than I currently do will not make me a better amateur operator nor a better person. I volunteer for PEP exercises and many local functions as an amateur. I do not appreciate being called "inferior" because of a 7 wpm discrepancy between my morse code knowledge and somebody elses.

Stan Skelton

Dear Sir:

Please consider this my submission in regard to Canada Gazette Notice No. DGRB-007-00 issued 2001-01-06. The notice is most timely and if it does nothing other than stop the senseless arguments and rants which pollute "letters to the editor sections" of amatuer radio magazines it will have done all of us a big favour!

While the arguments about Morse qualifications, both pro and con, continue unabated, there regretably seems to be a paucity of common sense applied in many instances. Simply put CW is a mode not an entry qualifier, it is a code not a language as any linguist would tell you, it is a mode that is able to overcome poor propagation conditions not a way to ensure amateur operator good behaviour. Much more could be said about CW but this is in effect what happens in most discourses on the subject and logic soon falls victim.

Those amateur operators with fast code qualifications can continue to enjoy their hobby as they choose, and this enjoyment should be protected. Those amateurs with 5 wpm can enjoy some new activities on the HF bands, and if the change to 5 wpm on the 10M band is any indication the sky will not fall in and the hobby will benefit greatly. Those without CW qualifications need only wait or get some basic CW qualifications for now.

The CW issue is one of inclusion, community, and survival of amateur radio. As the world changes, and it does whether we like it or not, an insular and restrictive approach to the future based on the past can only serve to create rifts in the amateur community and ultimately be detrimental to the hobby. In this, amateur radio is only experiencing a phenomenon which affects us in all facets of our lives. We can't do much about history but we can do something that ensures the growth of the hobby and maximizes the enjoyment of those involved. Increased usage of bands that are under-utilized will also help to ensure that external attacks on some current amateur band allocations can be met with something more than rhetoric.

If it is necessary to take steps to address amateur operator behaviour on HF (why only HF, the problems are everywhere) then meet the challenge with better education and enforcement programs. You can't control speculated operator behaviour problems with restrictions based on bad logic or restrictive entry. The problems are already there! Arguing that CW proficiency is a measure of potential behaviour is silly at best and just plain illogical. The recent editorial column in the January 2001 "QST" from an editor who should know better more than adequately illustrates the silly potential of the arguments, when in an otherwise coherent presentation about similar changes in the USA the author goes on to note in commenting about the longterm survival of CW that "Amateur Radio is more enjoyable and satisfying if you're proficient in Morse code than if you are not". Hogwash!!! Enough! I am in favour of the proposed amendment and I know I will enjoy and be satisfied with amateur radio regardless. I will also be relieved not to have to read silly arguments about this mode or that in amateur publications. Editors can better use the space to provide the kind of information that amateur operators can really use to their own and the hobby's benefit.

Terry Spurgeon

Hooray, it is about time to look to the future of ham radio. I am in favor of the 5 wpm code. 73 Rand VE7HRA

Chief, Authorization I cannot believe that Industry Canada would even think of giving Full Operating (Advanced) Privileges to holders of the 5 wpm ( Basic) requirement with out first having written and passed the advanced exam. The last thing amateurs need is another " grandfather " (deregulation) clause like the last one in 1990. Regards,

Lorne S. Anderson

Hi I support the dropping of the 12 w.p.m restriction for hf operation. 5wpm is enough.

Thankyou

VA3 TAC

Tom Cobban

Dear Sirs,

I am in favour of the Proposal to Grant Full Operating Privileges in all Amateur Radio Frequency Bands Below 30 MHz to Amateur Radio Operators Holding a 5 word per minute (w.p.m.) Morse Code Qualification, as gazetted in the subject Notice.

Yours faithfully,

Adam M. Farson

Amateur Radio Callsign: VA7OJ

To the Chief, Authorization, Spectrum Management Operations Directorate

RE: Amendments to RIC-2, Notice No. DGRB-001-01 A Proposal to Grant Full Operating Privileges in all Amateur Radio Frequency Bands Below 30 MHz to Amateur Radio Operators Holding a 5 word per minute (w.p.m.) Morse Code

I'm all for it. This opens up ALOT of opportunities for me ! If the ITU now recognizes that 5 wpm is sufficient, then let's back them up on it. Full band privileges essentially means no more barriers, the sky is the limit. Maiko Langelaar / VE4KLM advanced + 5 wpm

Comments From the RAC Site Re: Amendments to the Technical Requirements set out in the Radiocommunication Information Circular 2 (RIC-2), ““Standards for the Operation of Radio Stations in the Amateur Radio Service””

As an examiner and radio amateur for many years, I have found the 12 wpm test discouraging to potential advanced licenced radio operators. However, I do support the 5 wpm test simply because when the going get tough on ssb, cw could complete the contact, be it a pleasant qso or emergency. There may also be some people who may get to like cw and prefer it over voice. A few unfortunate people who have vocal or problems with manual skills can't use a keyboard or computer. However, they may be able to operate a key. Consider this... when you're old and loose your voice, maybe there won't be any cw to listen for!

Jeff Davis

Dear Sirs, We are very much in favour of allowing the Canadian radio amateurs operating privileges similar to those currently accorded to United States amateurs who successfully pass a 5 w.p.m. Morse test. RAC speaks for many Canadian Hams and I hope that their recommendation as follows will be allowed.

"The RAC has consulted with the Canadian Amateur Community in various ways including web site surveys, message boards, analysis of e-mail and postal correspondence and letters to the editor of The Canadian Amateur magazine, as well as on-the-air discussions and forums. It is evident that a majority of Canadian Amateurs are supportive of dropping the 12 W.P.M. test.”

>>> We feel that it is important to look ahead and join the multitude of Nations who have decided to decrease their Morse code proficiency to 5 w.p.m. Many European countries including the United Kingdom, as well as the United States, Australia and South Africa, have decided to decrease their Morse code proficiency requirements or are currently considering such action.

"A decision by Canada to reduce the 12 w.p.m. Morse code qualification (to 5 w.p.m.) would be consistent with what is happening in other parts of the world and would therefore simplify the process of implementing reciprocal operating agreements for Canadian amateurs with other administrations". >>> This is of paramount importance.

We look forward to Industry Canada allowing many more Canadian Hams the privilege of communicating world wide by making this change to 5 w.p.m. VE2WRE Bob Watson VE2SLO Shirley Watson

I agree to the proposal to lower the morse qualification to 5 w.p.m. I do" not" agree to granting of full operating privileges to amateurs holding only the "basic" proficiency certificate. Robert C.Abell Dear Sir/Madam:

The proposal to allow amateurs with the 5 wpm endorsement full operating privileges in amateur bands below 30 MHz has my full support. It appears to be the proper regulatory response to the changing realities of the hobby of amateur radio.

Sincerely,

Terry Noble

je suis radioamateur : pour la madification de cette avis , je suis pour que le critère du morse soit à 5 mots à la minute et de grâce n'abolissez pas se critère ...... Car les parasittes vont apparêtre et ça v'a être l'enferre et malheusement notre hobby ont dira ADIEU la radioamateur..... Afin de mieux comprandre les nouveaux changements j'aimerais que mon nom soit ajouté à la liste de votre courrier . Merci à ma demande mes 73

Merci de lire mon courrier Jean-Claude

As a licenced Amateur Radio Operator ( VE4ZB ) I fully support and endorse the proposed amendments to the Technical Requirements set out in the Radiocommunication Information Circular 2 RIC-2) I have read and concur with the statements and proposals as outlined in Notice No. DGRB-001-01. Thank you.

Albert Eros, Pharm.D.

I fully support the proposal to proposed to discontinue that Canada's 12 WPM Morse code requirement in favor of a 5 WPM requirement for full HF operating privileges.

Eric Pierce

I appreciate the opportunity to comment on this proposal. I do not support the proposed change. I think we should keep the present requirement for 12 wpm CW to gain full HF operating privileges. I believe that the ability to communicate in CW is a worthy skill and that it is important to have a pool of people in our society who are proficient in CW. Five wpm is not proficiency. The fact that marine radio operators no longer use CW is irrelevant. I don't think the purpose of amateur radio is to provide a source of trained marine radio operators.

I am also concerned about the deterioration in behaviour and operating practice on the HF bands. The 20 meter band is sounding more and more like Citizens Band every day. I believe that this proposal would only make this situation worse. It may be acceptable to ignore bad behaviour and incompetent operating practice on low power CB or even on VHF, where range is quite limited, but it is a different situation on the amateur HF bands where power and propogation permit routine communication around the world. HF operators become radio ambassadors for our country. Ask the Foreign Affairs Department if they would send an incompetent boorish lout to Great Britain or France as our ambassador?

I know that many will point to the number of Basic VHF amateur operators and assume that CW is the only obstacle to them upgrading their operating privileges. Well I don't think that CW is really the obstacle for most of these operators. Many amateur operators simply like to chat locally with friends on 2 meters. There is nothing wrong with that! But there seems to be this assumption that every Basic VHF operator should really be striving to work DX on 20 meters. Why can't we just let these folks enjoy chatting on 2 meters. Those who want to work the HF bands will acquire the necessary CW skills, but many Basic VHF operators aren't very interested in the HF bands.

I get the impression that there is also pressure from the manufacturers of amateur radio equipment to reduce the HF requirements so that more equipment can be sold. Since Canada does not have a significant domestic amateur equipment manufacturing industry that I am aware of, this type of pressure can be easily resisted.

I certainly recognize that there is a trend around the world to going to 5 wpm for full HF privileges. And I have no doubt that there will be a lemming-like urge to follow this trend. But I don't think that there is a really pressing requirement to go this route. What is wrong with having a higher standard than the rest of the world? What is wrong with having better radio operators, with a greater range of skills, who will be better radio ambassadors for our country? And besides, it is really not that hard to learn to operate CW at 12 wpm.

However, this is Canada and principled stands are rarely taken. Compromise is generally sought. So I have a compromise of my own to suggest. How about reducing the 12 wpm requirement to 10 wpm? I know it doesn't seem like much, but that 2 wpm in speed can be a significant obstacle. With 10 wpm, we would have a requirement that is easily achievable, but will probably be a higher standard than many other countries. I like the idea of having a higher standard for full HF privileges. I don't think we should join the rush to the bottom.

I hope these comments are helpful to you,

Bill Hood, VE4RR

I have enjoyed many, many years of activity and experimantation in the Amateur Radio Service.

I have also been a strong advocate of the Mores Code , for many person as well a technical reasons.

Additionally, I fully support the reduction of the " basic qualification " from the current 12wpm. to 5wpm. This in turn will better allow many licenced amateurs to expand their knowledge and technical experience , through experimentation in the new emerging technologies of today's wireless communications. In some cases this is where it starts.

This can obviously be facilitated easier and more specifically by voice rather than by Morse Code.

Best regards. ...John Stock

Re: Canada Gazette Part 1 5 wpm morse code proposal .

I totally agree. The proposal allows greater greater use of the amateur HF bands without restricting those who are interested in using morse code.

Robert J. Leduc, VE7ALT Sir:

I am writing this response for the North Island Amateur Radio Society (NIARS) in responce to proposal DGRB-001-01 to grant full operating Privileges in all Amateur Radio Frequency Bands below 30 Mhz to Amateur Radio Operators holding a 5 wpm Morse Code qualifications.

The Club would first like to thank you for giving us this opportunity to have some input into the proposal

The NIARS accepts this proposal but we do not wish to see any further reduction in the qualifications required for full privileges in all Amateur Radio Frequencies below 30 Mhz.

Our Club also has a concern about the possible loss of our existing Frequencies and Bands available to us. Now that we no longer pay a Licensing fee to IC, the possibility of our Frequencies and Bands being sold to other users, as is the situation in other Countries, is a great concern to not only our Members, but I believe to all Ham Operators here in Canada. Therefore, we would like IC to come out with some guarantee that the existing Band Frequencies available to Amateur Radio Operators will remain the way they are now and not be diminishing in the future

Thank you

John Morgan

Thoughts running thru my mind Yes it does not appear to be the best news for all those amateurs that worked hard to get the higher speeds but...I Dont think there will be any adverse effects on the bands for the folowing reasons

The increase in usage of those band will be marginal

Those who are entering the new bands are already amateurs by monotoring all bands there seems to be no difference

There are good operators and bad operators on all bands.

Another point is that there are a lot of countries adopting system so we might as well do the same.

It will also allow those operators who lack the physical coordination, but not the effort to go to highr speeds to join the rest of the amateurs as good amateur citizens on all bands

Thank you

À qui de droit,

J'ai pris connaissance de l'avis ci-haut mentionnée et suite à de nombreuses discussions avec mes collègues radioamateurs j'en arrive à la conclusion qu'il n'est vraiment pas souhaitable que la loi soit amendée pour faciliter l'accès aux hautes fréquences.

Depuis une dizaine d'années, on semble avoir associé progrès à dérèglementation. Au rythme où vont les choses, on n'aura bientôt qu'à se procurer un appareil, à installer quelques bouts de fil puis à émettre à tort et à travers sans plus de cérémonie. Le jour où le service de radio général et la radioamateur deviendront absolument synonymes n'est plus très loin et à titre de radioamateur dûment certifié, je m'objecte à ce qu'on laisse entrer n'importe qui dans la fraternité pourvu qu'il ou elle sache la différence entre un micro et une antenne, "micro-mitaine et lanterne" comme ils appellent ça trop souvent hélas dans leur parlure vernaculaire.

Je vois le jour où les radioamateurs dignes de ce nom seront tellement découragés qu'ils déserteront les fréquences et alors, ce sera le service radio général d'un canal à l'autre. Ainsi, vous pourrez bien intervenir pour faire ce que vous voudrez de ces fréquences, prétextant l'indiscipline ainsi que la confusion qui risquent d'y régner. Les sociétés de communications en ont tellement envie que vous serez bientôt tentés de les octroyer aux plus offrants et les amateurs qui ont été l'inspiration de toute cette technologie moderne à force de travail et de persévérance n'auront plus qu'à se contenter des mêmes petits appareils ridicules que le commun des mortels. C'est franchement désolant de constater que par ces modifications toujours de plus en plus permissives, vous nous repoussez inexorablement vers cette issue tellement déplorable.

Ce sont là mes bien modestes observations que j'ose vous soumettre pendant qu'il en est encore temps, j'espère.

En toute sincérité,

Yvan Burroughs

What is needed in the qualifications for an amateur radio operator, is more detailed testing and practical applications concerning ALL aspects of amateur radio, and not the ancient style of exams that put tubes and Morse code in the same category as satellites and digital technology.

Most "hams" with whom I'm aquainted haven't a clue as to what happens when they key a trasmitter. Ohms Law, Antenna Theory, propagation, emergency communications, public service, use of satellites, digital modes, computers, is a mystery. I often wonder how these VHF CBers got their ham tickets. Here the local amateur radio clubs should be an active participant in the training and testing of new amateurs, especially in the pratical demonstrations, to see if they actually understand the theory and haven't just bought the Study Guide and Answers.

I've never questioned the need to reduce the Morse code requirement. My only problem with what was to replace this standard. I'd like to see an emphasis put on the public service, and ARES (Amateur Radio Emergency Service) aspect of amateur radio. There should be X number of hours required, to receive full-HF privelages, where possible. Since, public service and ARES events and training are co-ordinated through a local radio club, this would ensure that the clubs take a leading role in the training and qualification of a new amateur. Too many amateurs operate in total oblivion and isolation from the local radio clubs and services. If and when a disaster strikes, most often the local ARES has only a small pool of trained and qualified radio operators from which to draw on. Since, this is supposed to be the Amateur Radio Service, let's see some more thought put into the "Service" end of things.

Sincerly,

Robert C. Mazur

Allow me to strenuously object to the lowering of CW test standards. It turns out that five words per minute is absolutely useless as far as being a useful communications tool. I can personally copy fifty plus words per minute, either on paper of in my head but I find it impossible to copy five words per minute unless i copy each and every letter on paper as it comes.

As far as use is concerned, I use Morse every day at twenty-five or thirty words per minute and it is a highly useful means of communication. Five WPM is nothing more than an exercise in futility.

A.R. (Al) Williams

Hello. Regarding the change in RIC-2 to:

"Grant Full Operating Privileges in all Amateur Radio Frequency Bands Below 30 MHz to Amateur Radio Operators Holding a 5 word per minute (w.p.m.) Morse Code Qualification".

I agree with the change. Although in a way, I'm a little sorry to see it change, but if it will attract more people to become Amateur Radio operators than so be it. Also, as many other countries around the world are making the change to full privileges at 5 WPM, it seems only fair that Canadian Amateurs be given the same privileges. For those that object to the change because they think it will lower the quality of operations, well, whether we like it or not, we are going to hear such operators on the bands (from other countries) so a few more from Canada are not going to make that much difference. I may be a bit bias as this change will help me. I have my 5 WPM qualifications and although i've been wanting to try to up-grade for a long time, i just can't seem to get to it (for various reasons) even though I'd very much like to be able to operate on all bands. However, if we were the only ones making the change, I might not approve even if it would be to my benefit. But as I said earlier, with other Countries making the change there's no reason why we shouldn't do the same. I never use CW, but i do hope that it is never dropped completely as I think that it makes one feel more involved and responsible for their actions (they earned the privilege to be there and won't want to do any thing to lose it), and i also think it is a good filter - it keeps out those that would like to be on the air but aren't really too serious about it. I think that almost anyone can get at least 5 WPM. And for the few that can't (and I understand that there are a few people that just can't do CW, at any speed) then there could be an exemption for them - perhaps a special written test or something could be substituted. Some people find learning CW is very easy, while for others it's more difficult. With my slow recall I don't think I'd ever be a speed demon on CW, but even so, I did learn my 5 and I think I might beable to learn 12? So if I can do it, most any one can, hi, hi. I still would like to up-grade even if i don't have to. So, I hope the change goes through and I will be eagerly awaiting for the time when i will be able to make some contacts on the other bands.

VE1KRE.....Keith.

Dear Sir or madam, I would like to voice my opposition to the proposed amendment. I believe that Proficiency in Radio includes proficiency in all of the commonly used communication techniques, and Morse Code is still in common use. Issuing Certificates of Proficiency without the 12 WPM requirement invalidates the reason the certificate is issued in the first place.

RE: Amendments to IC2(RIC-2) "Proposal to Grant Full Operating Privileges in all Amateur Radio Frequency Bands Below 30 MHz to Amateur Operators Holding 5 word per minute (w.p.m.) Morse Code Qualification. I would like to record that I fully agree to this proposal. I realise that proficiency in Morse Code has played a historically important role in the development of Amateur Communication and many Amateurs have strong emotional attachments to its use. However, it must be acknowledged that the vast majority of Amateurs once they have achieved the operating privileges that go with the 12 w.p.m Morse Code Qualification, never use it as means of communication. The reasons for persons becoming Amateurs are many and diverse, and the objective of any "hurdle" to obtaining operating privileges should be aimed at ensuring that individuals understand the principals of Radio Communications sufficiently well that they do not cause problems for themselves and others using the spectrum. An additional objective should be to provide a sufficient grounding in the subject to encourage further study and experimentation.

It can therefore be argued that some minimal knowledge of the Morse Code provides both a historical perspective and a basis for further exploration of the technique, if the person is so motivated. However, proficiency in Morse Code should not be a more onerous requirement than a knowledge of electronics and other modes of radio communication. Indeed, I would prefer to see some enhancement to the knowledge requirements of the latter included in the Amateur Qualifications which at present mostly requires merely learning by rote in order to pass. A more useful educational experience can sometimes be achieved by increasing the scope of the material to be studied but at the same time reducing the pass mark.

To repeat, I fully support the proposal to remove the 12 w.p.m. Morse Code Qualification and replace it with a 5 w.p.m. requirement.

John A. Blomfield

In view of the current trend in the commercial world to cease using Morse code on the HF bands in favor of more efficient transmission methods I agree with the idea of reducing the Morse code requirement from 12 wpm to 5 wpm. I do not want to see Morse code abandoned altogether as it will ensure that those who wish to have HF amateur radio privileges will have to work for them. If we are not careful amateur radio will become just another series of CB type bands, which is already happening on the 2M band. Lawrence Hooper

As an Accredited Examiner, I fully support the reduction from 12 WPM to 5 WPM for the granting of full privileges on the Amateur Bands. However, in order to recognize those Amateurs who do achieve the 12 WPM, I recommend that IC continue to issue licenses that reflect the higher ability in the future.....73....R Halpin (VE7 DDN).

Good Day I really feel let down by RAC, how can such an organization say that the majority of Hams want to drop the 12 wpm when in actuallity, RAC has only a very few hams as their members and the rest do not belong to RAC, approx, 5000 RAC members out of around 40,000 HAMS in Canada....Hmmmm...looks funny if they say the Majority !

Also, why is it that Canada always has to be a follower and never a leader ? Some of the other countries may have changed but does that automatically mean that we have to ? Where are our leaders...the men with guts ! (and I do not mean fat bellys ! ) I mean men with Integrity and leadership who once beleived in fighting for a cause as it was worth something....where are they now ?

Maybe they are to old to care anymore ?

If things keep going ....amature radio will be nothing more than a useless CB band and who wants to listen to " You Got Your Ears On Good Buddy " ? What ever happened to the days when holding an Amature Ticket really meant PRIDE !

Think back you guys....are we going to let IC and RAC destroy AMATURE RADIO for ever...think of all the hard work you have put into it over the years...those late nights studying the code etc....

Come on people, get together and let IC and RAC hear from you.

If anyone cannot pass the 12 WPM then why should they get full priviledges, do not lower our standards for sub-standard operators, if they can't take the heat then get out of the kitchen !

I have my 5 wpm and studying for my 12 wpm, I am not afraid of a little work but I guess a few ham wannabee's are afraid ...... maybe they can't read ?

Regards Chuck VE1 SOL

Re: Comments on propsed change to RIC-2

I am delighted to hear that the Gazette notice has been issued for proposal to reduce the morse code requirement from 12 wpm to 5 wpm for full use of the amateur bands below 30 MHz. I hope that this propsed change will be implemented soon.

I obtained my amatuer license between 1 and 2 years ago specifically in order to comunicate with other mariners while I take my own boat from BC through the Panama Canal to Europe. Much useful information (including vital weather forcasting) is discusssed by people from many countries using HF SSB comunication on the amateur frequency bands. Although a 5wpm Canadian license does not allow me to talk on most of these bands, most if not all of the other juridictions through which I will pass issue unrestricted amateur licenses without requiring 12 wpm morse code.

In my opinion, morse code is a historical phenomenon which could be replaced entirely by appropriate training requirements in more modern digital comunications. Certainly our canadian requirements should keep up with countries like USA, UK, & Australia which I believe have all dropped the 12 wpm morse requirement. Canadians share the spectrum with amateurs from these countries anyway.

Sincerely

David Hutchinson

To: Chief, Authorization, Spectrum Management Operations Directorate, Room 1588D, 300 Slater Street, Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 0C8.

Notice No. DGRB-001-01 - A Proposal to Grant Full Operating Privileges in all Amateur Radio Frequency Bands Below 30 MHz to Amateur Radio Operators Holding a 5 word per minute (w.p.m.) Morse Code Qualification.

I support this proposal 100%. I have my full privileges already, and I would like to see CW as a requirement for entry into Amateur radio dropped altogether!

VE4CT Charles Whittaker

Please accept this as a favourable response for the changing of the qualifications to converse on all bands with a 5wpm license. Thanks a lot

Gentleperson: I am a U.S. amateur, call sign W3BVS. I see no reason to even have the code requirement at all. With FM and side band being able to communicate under conditions that AM can not, the code requirement is only a stumbling block to those who would otherwise be good operators.

I think that there should be frequencies dedicated to those who prefer to use code but code should not be a requirement in order to get a license. Today's amateurs are not like those of earlier years who did much of the building of their amateur radios and transmitters. Today's amateurs are simply appliance operators who do not owen the necessary equipment to properly calibate and adjust home-brewed equipment. My wife and children handle much more sofisticated aplliances than the amateur equipment that I operate. VCR's, computers, programmable stoves and microwaves, cellular phones. All of these require as much knowledge as a transceiver operator.

Let's not keep good people from enjoying amateur radio because of old rules. Let's open up the bands and only require knowledge of regulations and good operating practices. Basic electronic and electrical knowledge is helpful but why must the operator have to understand deep theory and fomulas when they are no longer building equipment. Maybe there should be a special license requirement for those who desire to build some of their own equipment. In that case they would have to fully understand the required formulas and have access to the proper instruments to calibrate the equipment they wish to build.

I lost quite a few years of amateur operation on the HF bands until I was grandfathered in the year 2000. My occupation is President and CEO of a corporation. I do electronic design and hold electronic patents in the U.S. I could have been an asset to amateur radio during all of those years when I was not allowed to use the HF bands because of a fifteen word code requirement.

Although I know how to rebuild an automobile engine, it is not required of me to pass a test regarding engine repair. Nor do I have to know the combustion formulas for the fuel that I use. So why should such stiff requirements pertain to an amateur license?

Respectfully,

ROBERT M. BLECHMAN To Whom It May Concern; I have just heard via SSB radio net in La Paz, Mexico, that Industry Canada is contemplating changing the requirements for a HAM radio license so that HAM operators will only require a 5 wpm proficiency in Morse Code (not the 10 wpm currently required).

I just want to say that I am ALL IN FAVOR of changing the Morse Code proficiency requirement. I think that Canadian HAM operators are being held to a higher standard than the standard currently required in many other countries. Further, I think that while a knowledge of Morse Code should still be required, surely knowledge of proper radio etiquette is more appropriate and more useful to the HAM operator than a greater proficiency in Morse Code. Very few people rely on Morse Code in this day and age.

Just thought I would put in my two cents worth,

Thanks,

Sincerely,

Jennifer M. Smith

VE7 TNH

I think that the facilities are now here that we can send 5wpm or more on the computor for those that want to bve in competition, there the rules might be applied differently, as Long as there is enough knowledge to pick up identifiers on VHF, There should still be a CW contest and effort to get people to us CW it's going to be a lost art VE3PJC

Hi I aggree with the proposal that the 12 wpm requirement should be dropped.

Thankyou T Cobban VA3 TAC

Regarding the 5 wpm code tests. I do not agree with this proposal because CW is not dead or outmoded as many people would have us believe. Listening to the CW sub-bands during a weekend will prove this out. 5 wpm is not much of a test to prove that a person is worthy of a higher class of Amateur Radio license.

Also I believe this is the thin edge of the wedge to eliminate the CW test altogether. The argument that the marine and other commercial services do not use CW does not hold water. What does the commercial service have to do with Amateur radio? If other services are doing away with CW, I think this is all the more reason for the Amateurs to maintain high standards of CW use and to be the "keepers of the code".

Yours truly

Gerald W. Dixon, VE5DC.

In brief, I laud the position taken by Industry Canada and the RAC (Radio Amateurs of Canada) regarding a reduction of the code speed from 12 to 5 wpm. I feel that this move will positively influence the numbers of amateurs using the bands. I am also strongly supportive of maintaining a code presence for two reasons - Morse code is historically the first digital method of communication which still allows contacts in periods of abysmal propogation conditions and, in some circumstances, the code can be used without a radio using flashlights, horns or other non-technical approaches to effect a communication.

I would also support an increased stringency in the understanding of both radio theory, RFI and station operation.

As a '5 wpm amateur', I look forward to experimenting on bands that have hitherto been unavailable.

Thank you,

Ted Cowie VE3AAP

To: Chief, Authorization re: Canada Gazette Notice No. DGRB-001-01 - A Proposal to Grant Full Operating Privileges in all Amateur Radio Frequency Bands Below 30 MHz to Amateur Radio Operators Holding a 5 word per minute (w.p.m.) Morse Code Qualification January 17, 2001 Dear Sir, With respect to the proposal to reduce the Morse Code requirement from 12 words per minute to 5 words per minute, I wish to give my full support to this initiative. While Morse Code, or "CW", is an efficient means of communicating, and an enjoyable one for many, I do not believe that in this day and age, it is a valid measure of one's ability to partake in Amateur Radio. It would be of far greater value to the Amateur Radio community to ensure that participants have a greater understanding of modern modulation techniques that are suitable for the Amateur Radio Service allocated frequencies between 1.8 MHz and 29.7 MHz. More emphasis on the Radio Regulations would be beneficial, to ensure that hobbyists understand their rights, privileges, and responsibilities. I would also be in favour of a greater enforcement role from the Department. Personally, I have been a licenced Amateur Radio operator for almost 40 years, and think the time has arrived to make the change that is being proposed. Sincerely, J. Bryan Weaver

HI THERE PLEASE CONSIDER THIS AS MY VOTE TO DROP THE 12 WPM. THANK YOU JIM MILNER---VE1VIA–

To Chief, Authorization, Spectrum Management Operations

I'll be brief. Reducing the code to 5wpm is just another step in the degrading of the amateur bands. Have you listened to 2 meters lately? Every one of the people I am referring to are no coders or 5 WPM amateurs. Do you want these with the CB mentality on HF. Actually I have heard better practices on CB than 2 meters. If you want to remove the code requirement, fine. But at least replace it with something else. Like a harder written exam. The proposal that RAC has suggested is ridiculous. The state "that “RAC has consulted with the Canadian Amateur Community in various ways ..... It is evident that a majority of Canadian Amateurs are supportive of dropping the 12 W.P.M. test.”

Obviously they didn't talk to the people that had their 12 wpm endorsement. I worked hard for my code, and my advanced qualification. All the more reason I wouldn't want to screw it up by foolish behavior. Don't just give it away on a silver platter. Anything worth having is worth working hard for.

Sincerely Trace Klassen VE7RZ

Dear Sir, I'm sending these comments to you with regard to the recent proposal to eliminate the 12wpm code requirement for Canadian Amateur operators to operate below 30Mhz. I am completely against this proposal for a number of reasons. I believe that RAC does not and has never represented Canadian Amateur Radio operators in the broad sense or even that very tiny percentage of hams who actually belong to that organization. For that group to say that they represent Amateurs at large in Canada is patently false and their own membership numbers as opposed to the total number of hams in Canada bear this out. Simply putting out a question on their website as to whether one supports or rejects this new proposal, and stretching out and extrapulating these very limited results, from the very tiny minority who responded, adds no credibility to their case. It is the height of arrogance. I do not belong to that organization, however as an Amateur I was never consulted with and I can say that is also the case within my circle of acquaintances in the Canadian Amateur community. Another false assertion of RAC about their broad consultation with the Ham community. CW is a great mode of operation, a historic and traditional pillar of Amateur Radio all over the world and especially here in our country. To "lower the bar (standard)" would be a great mistake. The standards were lowered a few years ago on the spectrum above 30Mhz and what I've heard on the 2metre bands lately reminds me of 11metres. Operators using CB lingo, the use of profanity and just poor operating practice are pervasive. Strong and traditional standards by and large, produce operators who truly appreciate the Amateur service and respect the legacy passed on down to us by the great Radio men of the past. I believe that RAC only has their own interests at heart when they make such a proposal. They see that their membership is low and that the leading Japanise equipment manufacturers are hurting with new sales of gear. They mistakenly are hoping that if implemented, the proposal would cause a sudden and vigorous spike in new sales of HF equipment and possibly membership in RAC. RAC's own representative at the Burford,Ont hamfest remarked: "Amateur radio has been going downhill for 40 years." Yes, I agree, but what have they and their predecessor organizations been doing about it, except to push our Radio service down that hill to an uncertain future.

Canada should be a leader in the world and not go along with the "dumbing down" and instant gratification mentality of those who have a hidden agenda of lining their own pockets and care little for the average ham. Listen to the individual hams, take their insight into account and reject this proposal from an organization who does not represent me and my views on where Amateur radio is and where it should go.

Respectfully, A. Santangelo VE3AJM

Chief, Authorization: this message is in respect to the Notice No. DGRB-001-01 - A Proposal to Grant Full Operating Privileges in all Amateur Radio Frequency Bands Below 30 MHz to Amateur Radio Operators Holding a 5 word per minute (w.p.m.) Morse Code Qualification. (Undated Notice on the Industry Canada Website).

I draw your attention to the following paragraph from the notice: "The letter also pointed out that "RAC has consulted with the Canadian Amateur Community in various ways including web site surveys, message boards, analysis of e-mail and postal correspondence and letters to the editor of The Canadian Amateur magazine, as well as on-the-air discussions and fora. It is evident that a majority of Canadian Amateurs are supportive of dropping the 12 W.P.M. test.""

Clearly the RAC letter supports dropping the 12 WPM test. However, the letter fails to note that many Canadian amateurs are also supportive of dropping the Morse code requirement completely. It is for that reason, I must object to the proposed amendment to the Radio Communication Act as stated in your notice.

In closing, I ask that you revise your notice to remove the Morse Code requirement for granting enhanced amateur radio operating privileges in Canada as it can no longer be justified.

73s Norman A Weir VE3BWI

Amateur Service of the ITU - Telegraphy YES, Telegraphy no,

Open letter from the GACW (CW Argentine Group) Coordinators to the National Authorities, ruling class, Argentine and Southamerican Radio amateurs, and to all the people in general.

For several years have been a controversy, about the knowledge exigency of the Morse Code, in order to get a radio-amateur license with privileges to operate in the S.W.(HF), at the present it has create a lot of opinions and critics, which are very controversial in the international ambit and this is why we want to point out and to clear our position with this Opened letter.

We understand a great part of the reasoning, developed in some international media with the aim to derogate the CW exigencies, due to there is another emission methods and technical advances, as a product of the digital evolution in the Communications, which in due course could become also an examination subject. In fact, developed countries like Canada?, Germany? could have an admission examination without CW, and in the other hand their technical examinations and rules are very hard and selective. But, apart from that, we are wondering, which exigency is going to replace the capacity to operate an Emergency CW Station?, ...writing in a keyboard?,... touching a clarifier?,...or speaking in front of a microphone?.

If in another countries like England it has been decided the same action course and in some part of North America are doing the same, given arguments like the society development and its control systems, ...like the high age on the average, (lead to an illusory saying it is almost 50 years),... saying the telegraphy is killing the hobby, ...saying the telegraphy it is not up dated, ...saying there is no people going to the fairs and they blame to the CW examinations, etc., it is possible that some sectors are going to react in the same way and over all in places where the organizations has leaders without evidence of technical and personal capacity but yes they have a lot of discriminatory acts against every minority with a microphone not inclouded.

To understand perfectly the basic differences of our position, we need to clear to all who are ignoring, our activities has its origin en the Telecommunications International Union and its definitions as an Amateur Service and in this way, setting aside the most current tentative to change its name to adapt it to reality which emerge from the homogenization, it is not correct to name it like a hobby, apart from that a lot of people use it and think in consequence.

The majorities, several times manipulated by spurious interest, use to adopt wrong resolutions but adjusted to their reality and convenience. Actions like this could lead us far from the definition of the GACW (CW Argentine Group) about the real spirit of the radioamateur. A behavior adjusted to principles and rights, which hardly the majorities could approve, because it is easier a wide way than to follow the right steps, little by little, to obtain the place we deserve in connection with our capacities and knowledge, where who is doing an 6V6 by 6V6 with a crystal oscillator himself and manipulating a cathode or modulating in screen connected to a LW, or those others who experiment demodulating waves of TVBL (SSTV) or with QRP equipment, has the same areas and rights than others with a lot of kilowatts and sophistication.

With all our respect, the CQ Magazine of USA, Icom, Yaesu, Kenwood, the W5YI organization and others who can push and to re-claim more activity, don’t blame to the radioamateur, and if some of these organizations disappear some day, nothing is going to happened to us, we are going on working in our bands sharpening our intelligence in order to keep in the air whatever mode we choose and their disappearance will affect very little to the activity, and at least, much less than is would affect the disappearance of the operative genuine exigencies like a Morse examination.

The GACW support that the huge technologic development of the telecommunications, and the technology of the information is approaching the humankind each day, cellular telephones, satellital telephones, the Iridium Network, the TV right to home, the Internet network and others are filling empty places which were covered by the radio and convoke much more to young people due to its attractiveness. So, if they are preoccupied due to diminution of their incomes, the Institutions all over the world should play their real role, dedicating and promoting new activities in schools, printing books and bullets, preparing courses in videocassettes ands in audio-cassettes, and not following process like the Morse elimination in the examinations, which are far from being clear at all.

GACW applauds and points like an example the action started by a not diffusing Argentine Group of High Speed, integrated by enterprising argentine amateurs who are not in agreement with the sole microphone, who put in functioning its opened connection between the radio and the Internet Network which let the interchange of messages between our bands and the e-mail box of the whole world and between the local radioamateur group from the A.Brown and L. de Zamora Council Towns. Who are very interested in the lunar rebound TLT (EME), obtaining excellent intercontinental QSOs with old fashioned elements, or the amateurs members of the organizations who are searching for alien intelligence by hearing determined bands. These small group of amateurs with a technical and professional attitude, with very little institutional connections, are pointed us the changes using the knowledge and not those are simplifying, eliminating and destroying everything they are not in a position to understand because they don’t know or they don’t understand. For the same things, it was 21 years ago, the former discriminatory attitude in the clubs obligated us to create the GACW.

We know very well that our ambit is doing a great deal with the functioning delegations in the clubs and with the CW examination and we want to point out this situation and to cover the name of the leaders and institutions interested in share, improve and participate of the development. We are over 440 adherent members, some neighbor have understood us, and from Chile, Uruguay, Peru, Brazil and also a person from Kwait have joined to the legions of Mr. Samuel and we are eager to continue in this way of integration and mainly nobody discriminate us only because our loneliness and because we don’t use microphones very often and we don’t go very often to clubs either except to retire our cards.

The GACW don’t present a systematic opposition and without reasons against those leaders who are looking forward to eliminate the CW examination, we are concerned only about some of them, specially the most relevant in the National ambit, in case they don’t adopted an equilibrated and equidistant from the extremes, it will enough for us if each of them were capable to define orally the Ohm’ law and demonstrate graphically its verification, were capable of demonstrate his satelitte operative capacity, to make some fitting soldering in a UHF equip or perhaps he take part of the armed and solder of a DB25 connector, between so many things that an amateur should be in condition before to arrive to a transcendent leading charge, in order to be sure, at least, although they don’t share our thoughts, they will have a technical base of knowledge, due to the rules are easier to obtain, what let him to rule the destines of our National associations with equity.

To conclude, in synthesis, you can do whatever you want, go on destroying, extending the BC, eliminating, massing, go on forgetting that the only aims of our existence is the experimentation, but make you responsible of this, so the history can point you and everybody know that the telegrapher go on being for several years more, much more than the national and international fraudulent people who are temporally inside our Amateur Services.

Alberto U. SILVA, LU1DZ - Raúl M. DIAZ, LU6EF - Jorge F. Vrsalovich, LU7XP.-

Attention: Chief, Authorization

I agree wholeheartedly with the rationale that Morse Code is an outdated means by which privileges are granted. I also never quite understood the relationship between Morse Code and Voice communication: why have Morse endorsement to operate Voice - not logical.

I have been an amateur radio operator for twenty years and I have no problem with five words a minute cw. I also would have no problem with no code and cw sub-bands that you would have to pass a test to use them. It seems foolish to require code to use voice John Fisher 2137 Duggan Rd Nanaimo BC V9S5N9 va7no

Ref: RIC-2, DGRB-001-01

1. Good show! About time! What took so long? Let's stop looking over our shoulders and start looking forward to the future! Don't hinder tomorrow by clinging to yesterday!

2. I can't praise the proposal to lower the Morse Code limit to 5wpm enough. It is long overdue!

3. For far too long, the Amateur Radio community has stubbornly clung to the Morse Code license requirement as a rite of passage, as a filter, as a status symbol - well, fill in the blanks for your favourite reason. 4. Those who wish to use CW will gain proficiency in the mode as they develop their skills. Why legislate the skill level? It is like saying that I must be a able to demonstrate 20wpm typing skills to be able to use RTTY modes. I learn by doing.

5. I would support any recommendation by the ITU, at the next WARC, to totally eliminate the Morse Code requirement as a prerequiste for HF priveleges.

RJ Bond, VE4BJZ

Bonjour a vous je suis en accord avec la nouvelle rééglementation et sur tout il ne faut pas oublier qu`il y a dééjàà plusieurs pays qui on seulement le 5 mots et mêême nos voisin les Etas Unis il n`on plus le 12 mot minutes il ne faut pas oublier que la technologie a changer nous somme dans l`èère de l`ordinateur, oui c`est trèès bien que les candidats sache leur morse, en cas de panne de communication le morse sera toujours un outils de travail mais a 12 mots minute non je ne croit pas pour vue que le candidat sache son morse de base. je suis intééresser a la nouvelle rééglementation et je déésire savoir quand entreras en vigueur la nouvelle rééglementation merci

VE2 LUQ

LUC DROLET

Dear Sirs, I oppose deletion of the 12 wpm requirement for amateur radio operators to.

I do not think that Canada should automatically follow any other country's regulatory changes, rather the question of change should be carefully studied as to the benefits and drawbacks.

At present Canada does not subscribe to the ARRL bandplans, in fact some friction exists between amateur radio operators in the two countries because of this. In addition present Canadian restrictions are not unreasonable and amateurs are not experiencing any great problems. Why fix something that is not broken?

I think that removing the 12 wpm requirement will be detrimental to the hobby. At present it is a goal for amateurs to aspire to. I still spend most of my time on 75 or 80 M but passing the 12 wpm test was difficult and I probably would not have the CW proficiency that I do if that goal hadn't been present.

Please reconsider your submission.

Yours truly,

Mike VE7MMH

Concerning the proposal to grant full operating privileges in all Amateur Radio Frequency Bands Below 30 MHz to Amateur Radio Operators Holding a 5 word per minute (w.p.m.) Morse Code Qualification is a great idea as I have recently passed my basic nad now in the process of working on my 5 WPM (then onto Advanced)It is also I great idea that RIC-2 be amended so that full operating privileges in all amateur bands will be granted to amateur radio operators holding the basic and 5 w.p.m. morse code qualification.

Having the 12WPM minute and being able to use Morse code at one time would be a nessicity but not today, it's life is coming to a end just like the tall ships have seen there days. Like I said above I just got my basic and would like to be able use all amateur bands and this is the only reason that I have started on my Morse Code.

Frank Marks Amherst,NS

A qui de droit, Pour faire suite àà la proposition visant àà accorder aux radioamateurs titulaires d'un certificat de compéétence en morse de 5wpm de pleins privilèèges d'exploitation dans toutes les bandes de frééquences du service de radioamateur au-dessous de 30mhz, je suis fortement contre. Il est dééjàà de plus en plus difficile de garder les frééquences amateurs propres, si les bandes HF sont ouvertes àà tous, nous ne pourrons malheureusement plus avoir de contrôôle. En gardant une compéétence de 12wpm obligatoire, nous nous assurons de gens qui sont intééresséés car pour rééussir cet examen, il faut beaucoup d'éétude et de perséévéérance. Je suis persuadéée que si un sondage éétait fait parmi les amateurs qui ont dééjàà cette compéétence, la majoritéé serait en faveur de conserver les mêêmes exigences. Habituellement, ceux qui y sont parvenus, sont des personnes qui ont éétudiéé et éécoutéé avant de commencer àà transmettre. Comme un ami me disait si bien l'autre jour: La majoritéé des gens au pays sont en faveur pour l'abolition de l'impôôt sur le revenu, est-ce que cela veut dire que ce serait une bonne chose?? et que nous devons nous plier devant la majoritéé??

Je sais que mon message ne servira pas àà grand chose, mais au moins je pourrai dire que je vous ait fait parvenir mon opinion.

Sylvie Dion VE2TYD

Dear Sirs: I the undersigned strongly oppose the reduction of standards to 5 WPM for the morse code. By reducing the standards of the morse code qualifications you are reducing the standards of the Amateur Radio Operator, and soon it will end up as another" CB Band ". You only need to listen to the 2Meter band to those operators who hold a restricted VHF. Licence.I Have been hamming since I was 12 years old, first in Norway and now here in Canada.Please, dont reduce the standards of our hobby and its operators.

Lars Pedersen

VA7-LP

Dear Sir: I support the reduction to 5wpm. I am a sailor with a short wave radio installed in the boat. I do not yet have a ham license but plan to take the test this year. I believe that 5wpm will be adequate for me, if I ever will use morse code - such as in an emergency to get through, where otherwise I might not get through. thank you

Urs Boxler Director of Authorization

Dear Sir; Please add my name to those supporting the change in code requirements down to 5 or even lower requirements. This requirement in the day of the internet etc has caused a number of individuals to drop Amateur Radio.

Yours truly,

John P. Dornan and Steven Dornan Chilliwack, B.C.

VE7 - JPD and VE7 - ILQ

As a member of the Bluewater Cruising Association, I urge you to drop the standard for allowing amateur radio operators to transmit on all frequencies from 12 WPM to 5 WPM. Many people sailing offshore are helped immeasurably by shore-based Ham operators. However many others are denied this safety measure because time restraints prevent them from practising enough to attain the 12 WPM standard. There are so many things to do to prepare a vessel for long ocean passages that it becomes difficult to find the time to stop everything else and practice. Thus many boats leave for offshore without being able to use their ham radios. Lowering the standard would increase safety for many people. Cameron McLean Fleet Representative Bluewater Cruising Association

I would like to support reducing the words per minute requirement for the HAM LICENSE

Nick Sladen-Dew MB.,MPH.,FRCPC Medical Director Vancouver Community Mental Health Services

Chief Authorization: Dear Sir/ Madam,

You have invited comments on the proposal to drop the Morse Requirement to five words per minute. I rsupport this proposal. Because as the old guard drop away and many new people are discouraged with the twelve word rule, we are loosing a large volunteer population who will actually be able - not only to do morse but to read it!

Thank you for the opportunity to comment.

Janine G. Thiedeke

Editor, Currents

Bluewater Cruising Association

Folks

Agreed.

Tony

(Working on getting my basic license. I would never have had the patience to get 12 wpm. I will work on 5 wpm.) ----- Tony Toews

To whom it may concern:

Chief, Authorization:

I strongly support the proposal to remove the requirement that amateur radio operators hold the 12 i.e. Morse code qualification to operate an amateur radio station on frequencies below 30 MHz and that RIC-2 be amended so that full operating privileges in all amateur bands will be granted to amateur radio operators holding the basic and 5 w.p.m. Morse code qualification.

Rodger Vizbar VE6RRV

Gentlemen Just a quick note to tell you that I favor the dropping of the 12 wpm code requirements. I personally like cw but it is time to go on with the times and look forward to the new digital modes that will replace the Morse code.

Yours sincerely

Gerry Pement

Dear Sir, I urge you to consider the change in requirement of Morse 12 wpm. to 5wpm. This would make access a lot easier for most people considering a HF radio purchase. Thank you for the opportunity to have a say. Bob .Clayton

Re: Notice No. DGRB-001-01 - A proposal to Grant Full Operating Privileges in all Amateur Radio Frequency Bands Below 30 MHz to Amateur Radio Operators Holding a 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Industry Canada and Radio Amateurs of Canada Inc are to be commended for bringing this topic forward.

I very much support this proposal which would eliminate the 12 wpm Morse Code Qualification and give Amateur Radio Operators with a 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification, access to all HF bands. My reasoning follows:

(1) HIGH DEGREE OF SUPPORT FROM AMATEURS.

At the April 4, 2000 meeting of the Prince George Amateur Radio Club (Reg. Society) this subject was debated and the question posed was "Do you support the Radio Amateurs of Canada decision to make a proposal to Industry Canada for the elimination of the 12 wpm Morse Code Qualification". There were 24 Amateurs present. Voting results were: 23 - Yes in support of the RAC position, 0 - Against the RAC position. 1 - Abstained.

The Prince George Amateur Radio Club, with approximately 60 members, is probably typical of any Amateur Radio club that has not been formed with a specific agenda. In my estimation, if this same question was asked by other similar clubs, the RAC position would be endorsed overwhelmingly.

(2) ACCESS TO SPECTRUM SHOULD NOT BE DICTATED BY CODE PROFICIENCY.

ITU Radio Regulation - Article S25 had context in the era when it was written, but in todays environment it is an unnecessary restrictive barrier for access to HF. There is now considerable evidence that Article S25 will likely be dropped by the 2003 World Radiocommunication Conference. In the interim, maintaining only the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification is appropriate.

Morse Code is one of many modes and should not be given special status. There are now many modern modes which are efficient, reliable and accurate. Morse Code is a barrier which is preventing otherwise qualified amateurs from access to HF spectrum.

(3) HF AMATEUR BANDS ARE UNDER-UTILIZED BY CANADIANS.

My HF communication logs show a dramatic decline in contacts with other Canadians. For instance, a decade ago there was considerable Canadian activity on the 20 meter band during evenings every day of the week. Canadian activity is now very sparse.

New amateurs now rarely bother to learn any morse code, hence few new Canadian amateurs seek to use HF spectrum. Most would say they have no desire to invest a lot of time to become competent using an outmoded mode of communications.

I personally like and use Morse Code frequently. I am somewhat distressed that the number of Canadians Amateurs using Morse Code is in sharp decline. I believe this is an inevitable situation. Reducing barriers to access HF bands may perhaps produce even more proficient CW operators because of greater on air exposure if more Amateurs establish HF capable stations.

(4) EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS.

Amateur Radio plays an important role in the planning for, and providing of crucial communications during times of emergency or disaster. Reducing the Morse Code qualification will provide incentive for more Amateur Operators to equip themselves and gain HF operating experience. This increases the pool of experienced HF operators that emergency planners can draw from in times of need. This benefits all Canadians.

(5) KEEPING IN STEP WITH OTHER ADMINISTRATIONS.

The United States of America, our neighbors with a large Amateur Radio Operator population, has already reduced the maximum Morse Code requirements to 5 wpm. Many other countries have already done the same. Canada should not maintain a higher Morse Code requirement.

Frank VanderZande

RE: Canada Gazette Part 1, 2001-01-06, Notice No. DGRB-001-01 - "A Proposal to Grant Full Operating Privileges in all Amateur Radio Frequency Bands Below 30 MHz to Amateur Radio Operators Holding a 5 word per minute (w.p.m.) Morse Code Qualification" Dear Sir or Madam:

I am writing to express my support for the proposed amendment to the Radiocommunication Act to decrease the Morse Code requirement from 12 W.P.M to 5 W.P.M., for operating privileges below 30 MHz. This move would reflect the trend in licensing internationally, and be a positive step to ensuring the viability and growth of Amateur Radio among young people. This step is vital to sustain the pool of qualified amateurs that lend support to their communities throughout Canada.

Regards,

William Clendinning

Regarding dropping the 12 wpm Morse Code requirement for access to the HF band...

Please drop the 12 wpm Morse Code requirement as it has become less relevant to today's HF communications. I think 5 wpm is achievable by just about anybody so that should stay.

I would like to see the Basic and Advanced tests updated to reflect recent developments in ham radio. It would be nice to have a practical test (such as proper operation of a radio, identifying different radio signals (eg. Pactor, Amtor, Voice, CW, etc) and determining whether or not transmission at a certain frequency and mode would interfere with those currently being heard on the radio.

Roger Chin

Dear Jan, on behalf of my Daughter, Naomi, VE3NEN, my son, Justin, VE3VEK and myself, Peter, VE3PPV, I would like to congratulate you on the proposed change which will make it easier for my kids to enter the wonderful world of long distance ham radio.

This change, not only improves the regulations (which were uselessly hindered in the past with the 12wpm regulation), but makes the world a smaller place for the countless of young people who want to enter the hobby and use it to everyone's benefit.

Thanks again, Peter Vekinis ATTN: Chief Authorization Re. Canada Gazette Notice DGRB -001-01 'Proposal to grant full operating priviledges to amateur radio frequency bands below 30 MHz to amateur radio operators holding a 5wpm morse code qualification. I whole heartedly support this proposal for the reasons mentioned in the Gazette notice. There is a worldwide movement along these lines towards eventual removal of the morse requirement for amateur radio operator HF operation. Due to the decreased use of morse in commercial and maritime areas, the mode is better replaced by enhanced theory and better operating skills. It should however remain as a legal mode of operation if desired to be used by Amateurs.

Jeff Richardson VA3QSL/VA3YY

Dear madam / sir,

I recently saw a gazette notice regarding to 5 WPM Morse Code requirement. I am in favour of dropping 12 WPM testing requirement as without this amateur radio is unlikely to survive; even without this, amateur radio is "already" facing a difficult situation to attract new amateur operators. Further, it is true that many other countries have already dropped morse code requirement and there is no "strong evidence" to stand to keep 12 WPM here only in Canada. Some countries even allow amateurs to operate below 30 MHz without passing any CW test; an example of such is Japan, where amateurs with no CW certification have access to most of the HF bands.

I would like to further recommend that holders of "aeronautical, land and maritime restricted radio operator certificate(s)" to allow access on privilege that is identical to that of amateurs with basic certificate (i.e. a call sign issued upon request); however, if they wish to hold 5WPM or advanced certificates to expand their privilege, they need to write a basic qualification exam and then challenge 5WPM or advanced exam later for fairness and international regulatory reasons. This encourages many individuals to "try out amateur radio" and thus increases the use of amateur radio use, which benefits both today's amateur radio community and newcomers.

I appreciate your consideration.

Sincerely,

Masat Noda

To Chief, Authorization

I totally agree with the proposal the Industry Canada intends to introduce by way of modifying the Ric-2 so that all Amateur Radio operators holding the Basic License and 5wpm be allowed to operate on all bands below 30Mhz, as written:

In light of the foregoing, Industry Canada proposes that Radio Information Circular 2 (RIC-2), Standards for the Operation of Radio Stations in the Amateur Radio Service be amended to remove the requirement that amateur radio operators hold the 12 w.p.m Morse code qualification to operate an amateur radio station on frequencies below 30 MHz. It is also proposed that RIC-2 be amended so that full operating privileges in all amateur bands will be granted to amateur radio operators holding the basic and 5 w.p.m. morse code qualification.

Thanks for taking the time to read this.

73 De Mike VE3IPC

Ref: Notice No. DGRB-001-01 — A Proposal to Grant Full Operating Privileges in all Amateur Radio Frequency Bands Below 30 MHz to Amateur Radio Operators Holding a 5 word per minute (w.p.m.) Morse Code Qualification

Dear Sir; I have reviewed the proposal outlined in Notice DGRB-001-01 and would like to offer some suggestions on how this proposal might be improved. By way of introduction I can state that I have been an amateur radio operator for 12 years, served for 21 years as a Communications and Electronics officer in the Canadian Forces and hold a Diploma in Electrical Technology from Ryerson Polytechnical Institute. I have taught amateur radio courses (including morse code) and presently sponsor the VE3RCS club station in the Military Communication & Electronics Museum in Kingston, Ontario.

In essence, the Industry Canada proposal states that Morse is an outdated modulation technique, that government and commercial users have abandoned Morse and that proficiency in Morse should no longer be the basis for enhanced operating privileges. While there is some truth to these statements, there is are some important concepts that are being missed.

It is true that Morse is an old modulation technique. However, it is robust, simple, widely compatible and inexpensive. These attributes alone should recommend it to the amateur service. Not only does it give amateur operators a connection with the roots of the hobby, but it provides an extremely useful, low-tech emergency capability.

It is also true that government and commercial organizations have ceased to use Morse code. However, these are organizations with very specialized communications requirements and the ability to both set and enforce standards of operator proficiency. Their situation is not exacly mirrored by the amateur service. Particularly for beginners, Morse is a superb training ground that provides a simple way to make long distance contacts and gain operating experience. Historically, as finances and technical ability permit, these operators build on their Morse apprenticeship and expand their activities to include the more exotic modes. Finally there is the idea that Morse proficiency should not be the basis for enhanced operating privileges. This is exactly WRONG! Without a high level of proficiency in operating, the amateur bands will quickly turn into a high powered "CB" environment. All one has to do is monitor the 2 Metre band to confirm this. It seems that the best training ground for building operator proficiency is through on-air operation using Morse code.

There must be a disticntion made between the skill needed to pass the current 5 WPM test and the skill needed to effectively communicate at 5 WPM. The latter, in addition to requiring the ability to sort out the dots and dashes, requires a practical ability with prosigns, operating signals and communication protocol. These skills, once learned using Morse code, are directly applicable to all other modes of communciations. This is certainly not a new idea.

Under a previous scheme, it was necessary for an operator to prove that he had been active in Morse code before he could attempt to obtain an advanced qualification. The term "active" was defined as averaging five Morse code contacts a week for one year. This gave the operator 260 training opportunities to develop operator proficiency before gaining full HF privileges. This had the effect of putting the focus firmly on operator proficiency, not just Morse proficiency.

It is suggested that the current proposal be amended to grant full HF privileges to amateur radio operators holding both the Basic and 5 WPM qualification, only after they have demonstrated a satisfactory level of operator proficiency. This criteria would be met by a minimum of six months of on-air activity in Morse code. This would require not less than 100 two-way morse code contacts, including not less than five verified contacts with a volunteer examiner.

In summary, while the original proposal has merit, it can be improved by establishing a clear requirement for operator proficiency. The mechanism for doing this is both simple and inexpensive.

Yours truly

D.G. Lawrence, VA3ORP

It is interesting that the ARRL has reversed itself on the subject of Morse requirements for operation below 30 mHz. They were all for reducing speed requirements and eventually dropping Morse as part of Amateur Radio certification. Now they have done a complete about-face and have formed a committee to promote the use of CW on the ham bands. I highly commend the ARRL for their courage. A.R. Williams

Please add my vote to the elmination of all Morse Code requirments for operation on any amateur frequencies.

Jeff Cameron VE6JHC Regarding the proposal that the Standards for the Operation of Radio Stations in the Amateur Radio Service be amended to remove the requirement that amateur radio operators hold the 12 w.p.m Morse code qualification to operate an amateur radio station on frequencies below 30 MHz, I completely and wholeheartedly support this change.

In fact, I would suggest that RIC-2 be amended so that full operating privileges in all amateur bands would be granted to amateur radio operators holding the basic qualification only, without any morse code requirement. It appears that morse code has now been universally abandoned as a functioning method of radio communications by government and Coast Guards authorities. Other systems and methods of electronic communication have now superceded morse code, including emergency communications. Morse code broadcasts will not be heard or responded to by emergency services.

There is nothing to prevent hobbyists or enthusiasts from learning morse code for use between thewmselves. But for practical purposes, it is now obsolete. In my submission, it would be unfair to require new ham radio licence applicants to invest significant amounts of time and anxiety in developing a skill which is, in practical terms, obsolete. It's like requiring the applicant for a driver's licence to learn horsemanship skills. The basic qualification should ensure that ham radio operators use the radio frequencies in an informed and proper manner.

Thank you for this opportunity to express my views on this topic.

Bob Mitchinson

Dear Sir I am fully agreed with the proposal submitted by the Canadian Amateur Radio society in which it is requested that condition of 12 wpm morse code should be remove to use HF band below 30MHZ. and full operating privileges in all amateur bands should be granted to amateur radio operators holding the basic and 5 w.p.m. morse code qualification.

73

VA3MUH

The Mississauga Amateur Radio Club is pleased to submit the attached comments on Canada Gazette Notice DGRB - 001: A Proposal to Grant Full Operating Privileges in All Amateur Radio Frequency Bands Below 30 MHz to Amateur Radio Operators Holding a 5 word per minute Morse Code Qualification.

Michael Brickell

Dear Sir or Madam, My name is Chris McMullan (VA3CMJ), and I am concerned about the ramifications of the new ammendment to the amateur radio regulations, regarding the elimination of the 12 W.P.M. morse code requirement.

It is understandable that the outdated and virtually obsolete system of Morse code is what drives many new amateurs away from being tested for full priveliges, or even get their ticket at all, but what is being done to keep the system organized? Not just jammers, but unexperienced experimenters might gain access to vital amateur radio band portions without the technical knowledge of keeping their transmitting equipment within the acceptable power output limits, or making sure the rig does not create spurrious emissions while on the air. The 12 W.P.M.requirement kept this realm of frequencies open to those who were determined to use it, and kept out people who were simply after these frequencies as a means of getting off their handhelds.

Since the code requirement is quite outdated and of almost no practical use to any amateur nowadays, I propose that the theory and regulation portion of the profficiency test be updated with more complex material to balance against the loss of aptitude in the Morse code.

I myself have the Basic + 12 qualification, and found it was not hard to learn the code with dilligent study, and would be sad to see it go, but if it must, I ask you to take into consideration what will be replacing it. What will keep jammers and unexperienced operators, or at least operators without sufficient operating knowledge from going beyond their allotted frequencies?

Sincerely Yours,

Chris McMullan

Comment on Proposed Amendment to RIC 2 By Mark F Macpherson VE2JT I support the proposed amendment on the basis that Morse Code per se, is less relevant for telecommunications than it was 100 years ago at the beginning of radio. It is still a useful mode of communications because of the relative simplicity of the equipment required to generate CW emissions and there will still exist a cadre of operators with this skill if it is required in the future. I would hope that, in the future, that the code requirement be retained at this level and not simply dropped altogether regardless of what other administrations may accept. In the introduction to the proposal by Industry Canada, experiments in other digital modes are mentioned. This is true for many amateur operators who would more strongly support the proposal if the key objective for obtaining amateur qualifications was more heavily weighted in favour of experimentation and pursuit of improvements to telecommunications science and practice. Unfortunately a great number of individuals are motivated by the desire to have another method of communicating as an adjunct to the GRS (so called CB), the FRS and other public non-licensed modes. These people may be defined as “communicators” rather than experimenters. Although there is nothing fundamentally wrong with the communicator interest in amateur radio, as even experimenters need to use their creations, constantly lowering the bar to accommodate a lack of interest in the radio art, is likely to be counter-productive in the long run. If indeed the objective in maintaining the Amateur Service is to foster an interest in the art and science of radio for the benefit of the country and not simply to provide an outlet for communicators, then the qualifications need to be slanted in this direction. As an instructor and delegated examiner, I believe that I am seeing in the current Basic Question Bank a further move toward simplification. I note more emphasis an operations rather than theory. By the way I must compliment the Department on the improved presentation and organization of the new Questions Banks. Although I have no quarrel with this simplification for the entry level, the standards should be further raised for operating knowledge at the basic level and some differentiation of band-use privileges for the advanced level. If it is desirable to promote experimentation, then the advanced qualification must be given more credibility and the advanced operators clear space in which to carry out appropriate experimentation on the HF bands. To this end, I would suggest one or two HF bands or portions of several bands be assigned to the advanced level operators to encourage more individuals to qualify at this level and attempt experimentation. The current privileges of transmitter building, high power, and repeater operation are not always significant to the average intelligent person who may wish to experiment with new modes. The HF bands are currently crowded and clear space is required for those who are experimenters and not simply communicators. I am aware of the increasing difficulties of IC in managing and enforcing the proper use of the radio spectrum and I am equally aware that this may not change in the foreseeable future. As one who believes in self-regulation, I am sure that the majority of the qualified operators will recognize the new band allocations. I also believe that a qualification that is hard-won will be defended vigorously by the amateur community with no additional burden on the Department. I have had a life-long interest in Radio and telecommunications going back almost 50 years with over 20 years as a licensed amateur radio operator. I still love to experiment with new modes and concepts in radio communications even though now I am retired. I see many younger people who are interested in radio and who may not be as technically qualified as me, but with encouragement are interested in trying out new things in radio communications. I hope that my few remarks will be useful to you in formulating future policy toward amateur radio and its use of the scarce radio spectrum.

Mark F Macpherson VE2JT

I am in favour of dropping 12 wpm morse code and leaving it at 5 wpm morse code operation of all bands below 30mhz... John townsend

Chief, Authorization

I would like to express my gratitude in the proposed changes to allow amateur radio operators with five words-per-minute morse code to operate on frequencies below 30 mhz. While I have nothing against the old system or its proponents, being a relatively new ham, I see no real benefit in clinging to past and many benefits in opening the airwaves to new young operators.

Morse code wil always be an enjoyable pastime for many amateur operators but I do not believe it should be used as a "filter" to keep people from enjoying radio as a hobby.

Regards

Dave Nelson

Chief Aauthorization. Dear Sir; I am holder of a five word a minute certificate Yea I am in favour of granting full operating priveleges in all ameteur bands below 30 Mhz to amateurs holding a 5 w. p.m. qualification. I feel it would help new hams to feel like going for thier 5 wpm and getting thier full priveliges rather then having to go for thier 12 wpm. Those who already have thier 12.wpm or beyond should not feel bad because they already have that experience and knowledge so they are still far ahead of those who have only thier 5.wpm. Yours very tr uly Herb Reimche

Gazette Notice No. DGRB-001-01 Dated: 2001-01-06 A Proposal to Grant Full Operating Privileges in all Amateur Radio Frequency Bands Below 30 MHz to Amateur Radio Operators Holding a 5 word per minute (w.p.m.) Morse Code Qualification.

Members of the Brantford Amateur Radio Club have discussed at length this proposal during their January 2001 Business Meeting. A vote was conducted indicating a majority of it's members are against the proposal to reduce the 12 w.p.m. Morse code requirement to 5 w.p.m. in order to grant Amateurs full HF operating privileges on frequencies below 30 MHz.

Richard La Rose, VE3RLX

I have no objection to the removal of the 12 wpm test. Tim VE7SEZ ( B+12)

Chief, Authorization,

RE:Canada Gazette Part 1 Notice of proposed changes to rule making DGRB-001-01 January 6, 2001

"A Proposal to Grant Full Operating Privileges in all Amateur Radio Frequency Bands Below 30 MHz to Amateur Radio Operators Holding a 5 word per minute (w.p.m.) Morse Code Qualification."

As a Canadian Amateur Radio Operator, I believe that this proposal is in the best interest of the Canadian and International Amateur Service as a whole, and completely support the initiative shown by Industry Canada and Radio Amateurs of Canada. The scope of this proposal fosters development of the Canadian Amateur Service and is important in terms of keeping the Service, and the rules that govern the Service, current with today's technology coming into the new Millennium. Thus, bringing this proposal forward in accordance with the Radio Communication Act is completely supported and approved of.

Regards, Lindsay Rutschke VE6 LRR

Gentlemen: In response to the recently Gazzetted article regarding reducing ham radio operator morse code qualifications from 12wpm to 5wpm in order to qualify for access to all Ham radio bands I provide the following opinion. Given the trends to reduce code qualifications world wide to 5wpm combined with the Canadian Governments dropping morse as an acceptable and required component for communications in most other segments of communications I believe it makes very good sense to immediately reduce the amateur radio morse code requirement for all ham operators access to all ham band from 12wpm to 5 words per minute. Thank you for providing this forum for opinions on this matter. D.R.Hutton VE3AFE.

HI THERE PLEASE CONSIDER THIS AS MY VOTE TO DROP THE 12 WPM. THANK YOU from ve1gwr gerald ross

HI THERE PLEASE CONSIDER THIS AS MY VOTE TO DROP THE 12WPM THANK YOU ROGER BOSS VE1TNN LARRY BOSS VE1SET ELIZABETH BOSS VE1ETT

I hold a basic with 5wps,when well i be granted full hf.. what date an month well it come into a effect..please reply back,thanks for your time.. Albert

Attention: The Chief, Authorization

AS an examiner, I strongly object to this misguided proposal suggested by RAC (who should know better!!!) for the following reasons:

1. Many 5 WPM CW operators have proved incapable of understanding the nature of International band/power requirements. (I have personally experienced rude Canadian Amateurs operating in CW sections of US allocations). The only proven way of ensuring that International operation is conducted in a professional manner is to continue to enforce the 12 WPM standard.

2. The purpose of the 5 WPM privilidge was to give radio amateurs the experience of HF operation within confined limitations. This had three purposes: (1)To educate the amateur in Shortwave practices such as antenna construction and International operating. (2) To provide a growth platform for continued skill development. (3) To prove adequacy in International amateur communications.

3. The proposal will give way to an 'Open House' for anyone with the money and 'CB-ego' to buy the biggest amplifier and tower without regard for International regulations or Interference to other amateurs who have taken these considerations into account.

The proposal by RAC clearly supports 'giving away the farm' without consideration for the tenants!!!

IF THE ARGUMENT WAS TO DISPENSE WITH THE MANDATORY 12WPM MORSE, THEN AN ALTERNATIVE TEST OF USER PROFICIENCY SHOULD BE GIVEN TO APPLICANTS WISHING TO UTILISE THE FULL SPECTRUM.

THIS TEST SHOULD BE AVAILABLE AT INDUSTRY CANADA OFFICES BY APPOINTMENT - AND NOT OFFERED WITHIN THE AMATEUR COMMUNITY.

ITS CONTENT SHOULD INCLUDE ITU REGULATIONS, BAND-EDGE LIMITATIONS, INTERFERENCE PREVENTION AND A FULL UNDERSTANDING OF TRANSMITTERS AND POWER REGULATION AND SHOULD BE SUBJECT TO REVOCATION IF HOLDERS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH CERTAIN TERMS AND CONDITIONS.

Yours Truly,

Terence G. Bennett , VE3EGA, VA3IP, (G4EGA)

Hi just wanted to add my two cents worth to this qusestion I think that 5wpm is all that is needed to allow people to use the HF bands especially when you know that once they get their code it probably won't be used again....this is the case with most of the people that I know.

Many will not go for HF if the 12wpm is kept and in the end that will only serve to reduce the hobby to vhf-uhf only .

WE all know that in the event of a major earthquake that the repeater systems may not survive and that HF may be the only form of communication available. So in my opinion it is to the Country's benifet to have more HF operators. thanks for the opertunity to give my opinion....Randy VA7PG

Dear Sir:

I am holder of an Advanced Amateur Certificate with 12 wpm code qualification. I have held this status since 1958 and have been licenced as an Amateur Radio Operator since 1956. I am currently a Designated Examiner listed in both Saskatchewan and Alberta. I have instructed classes in amateur radio and have mentored many amateur radio operators over my 45 years as a "ham". Thus I feel qualified to comment on the proposed change to the regulations.

I am completely in favour of this proposal. I do think that a basic knowledge of Morse code would be beneficial to a licence holder, but am still not completely convinced that it should be a compulsory qualification for the holding of a licence. However, as long as such a requirement is advocated by the IARU, it must remain in Canadian regulations. In view of the gradual closing down of official stations using Morse code, and the withdrawal of required Morse code capability for commercial radiocommunications, it seems obvious that higher speed Morse code capability for amateur radio licencing is a redundant requirement. I do believe that Morse code (CW) will continue to be used for many years on a voluntary basis by many amateur operators, so it will join with other modes such as Baudot RTTY, ASCII RTTY, packet, SSTV, PSK31, Amtor, etc. plus digital modes yet to be developed as a favourite of certain groups of dedicated amateurs.

I do not subscribe to the often stated belief that lack of Morse code capability renders an amateur operator somehow less ethical or disciplined. The maintenance of acceptable standards of courteous and ethical conduct is the responsibility of the existing ranks of amateur radio operators to provide an example and to mentor the newcomers to the hobby. Nor do I feel that licencees who have recently qualified for Advanced status without Morse are somehow less intelligent or dedicated than those who passed Morse code examinations many years in the past and have not used CW since. Once again, It should be the responsibility of the instructors and mentors to teach the prospective amateurs acceptable operating procedures and supplemental knowledge that will make them valued members of the amateur radio community. Some of the problems that have arisen with new licencees are because of incomplete instruction and example, that is, teaching only to the exam requirements.

It seems that the amateur radio community is dividing into two separate bodies, those with Morse capability and those without and the latter category is growing faster than the former. As a consequence, our HF bands need more occupancy. Allowing the 5 wpm qualified amateurs to access those bands should provide those new added operators.

A great part of the value of amateur radio to our society is in the provision of emergency communications. This capability would be definitely enhanced by the addition of a further group of amateurs with HF communications capability.

In summary, I am strongly in favour of this proposed change to the regulations and I urge that it be done as soon as possible.

Thank you for your attention to this comment. If the comment is late, please forgive me. I have just returned from some weeks in Vancouver.

William G. Till

Attention: Chief, Authorization Industry Canada The executive of the Kitchener Waterloo Amateur Radio Club endorses the proposal to delete the requirement of 12 wpm

Morse Code in the Licence requirement.Canada Gazette Part 1,Publication date 2001-01-06.

This appears to be consistent with most other major countries: United Kingdon, United States, Germany, Australia to name the more significant countries.

Morse code is no longer important in military training, in most significant countries.

Further the requirement simply impedes many new Amateurs from entering the HF bands. The manufacturers of

HF equiptment are beginning to suffer from a reduced market and it could reduce the development of HF innovations.

Industry Canada is taking a significant role in assisting the

Electronic Industry to gain a substantially increased HF equiptment market, by eliminating the 12 wpm Morse Code requirement.

We applaud the insightful proposal of Industry Canada.

Dr. Robert R. McKie Sir, I am faculty at the British Columbia Institute of Technology in the Electronic Engineering School in theTelecommunications Option. As well as spending my life in this field I have held a Amateur licence for more than 30 years. I am also an examiner for Industry Canada.

As an educator as well as someone who works in this field professionally, I wish to give my full support to this amendment. In the world of wireless and Internet, the demand for qualified people working in this field is growing. This is one of the important ways to keep the service alive and get young people interested in radio. Personally, I would support the dropping of Morse Code completely and make it an option. I hope in time that wisdom will be seen. Until that time, please follow through in making the Amendments law.

Yours Truly Stephan Smolar British Columbia Institute of Technology

Please consider this as our votes to drop the 12 W.P.M. test. VE1KBG VE1BON VE1CJG thank you ken bonnie corey gilroy

Dear Sir,

The Amateur Radio Service is a noble and beneficial service with much history and accomplishment. Whenever changes are made to it's structure or it's technical requirements and qualifications, care must be taken to ensure that the intentions and purpose of the service are not adversely affected. Such changes, when poorly implemented, or thoughtlessly imposed can often lead to the original aims and objectives of the Service to disappear.

Today, there is much emphasis in our society for "progressive" change. Old ideas and ways are swept aside in an effort to make room for more modern state-of-the-art technologies and methods. This clamour for the "new" is unabated and sometimes deafening. Though swept aside, and rendered silent, the old technologies and methods still maintain useful application, both as practical techniques and as important links to the heritage of the service. Of course, I'm talking about Morse code and it's application in the Amateur Radio Service.

As mentioned in Notice No. DGRB-001-01, there are "a number of petitions from individuals who contend that the current regulatory requirement for maintaining an operator proficiency in the transmission and reception of Morse code at a speed of 12 words per minute can no longer be justified. Their view is that CW is an outdated modulation technique and that proficiency in the Morse code should no longer be the basis upon which amateurs are granted enhanced operating privileges."

I believe that these contentions are mistaken and I will endeavour to explain my reasons. "CW is outdated"

This contention is based on the evidence on the numbers of government and commercial users who have abandoned this mode. What has not been considered is that these commercial usersdemand increasing speed, efficiency and cost effectiveness in their communications systems requirements. As well, a major criterion for a commercial communications system is manpower resource availability. With the development of advanced, highly cost-effective digital communications techniques via satellite and other facilities, plus the decreasing requirement for specialized training to use these systems, has led to the over-all decrease in the cost of operating and maintaining these systems. Cost-effectiveness is the main engine of change in commercial communications. For commercial users, Morse code is both too slow, and too expensive; it has been superseded by faster, more advanced, more efficient state-of-the-art techniques.

Since these criteria, (efficiency, cost-effectiveness) do not apply for the Amateur Radio Service; they can be dispensed with as an argument. What is applicable in Amateur Service, is technique and the basic understanding of radio technology. Morse code as sent in Amateur Radio is sent as an interrupted, unmodulated carrier or continuous wave, (CW). The basic knowledge involved in understanding how a CW signal is generated and how intelligence is transmitted over it is fundamental to understanding how radio works. But a theoretical understanding of CW is not enough. It is important for Radio Amateurs to gain a practical understanding of CW and it's attributes through hands-on experience. It's simplicity and spectrum efficiency can only be fully appreciated through practical experience.

All these elements are essential components of the stated purpose of the Service, "…in which radio apparatus are used for the purpose of self-training, intercommunication or technical investigation by individuals who are interested in radio technique… ". If Radio Amateurs are to be pursuers of the art and science of the "radio technique", then a basic competency in CW is mandatory.

In order to be sufficiently competent in CW, it must be sent and received at a speed that makes it useful and practical as a communications medium. A speed of 5 words per minute may be adequate for basic familiarity with the International Morse alphabet, but it is nearly useless as a practical means of communication. To effectively send messages via CW requires the use of prosigns, abbreviations and operational signals. To do this requires a speed proficiency of at least 10 words per minute, and that is at very minimum.

One of the major complaints over the years has been the so-called difficulty in learning the Morse code. Within the last twenty years, both new, innovative computerized methods, as well as older, proven techniques have been successfully used to teach Morse code. The current approved technique using characters sent at high speed, with long spaces in between the characters, has demonstrated that any determined and motivated student can learn the "code". With this "state-of-the-art" method of code training, the beginning student is sent the characters at an initial rate of 18 – 20 WPM, with spaces equivalent to approximately 5 WPM. Using this method, it has been demonstrated that it's just as easy to achieve equivalent 10WPM proficiency, as it is to achieve equivalent 5WPM. There is virtually no difference in effort required other than the short time necessary to achieve the added 5 WPM. "Many have also questioned the logic of maintaining a regulatory regime whereby operator proficiency in the Morse code is the standard applied in order to grant Canadian amateurs enhanced operating privileges in telephony."

To be a Radio Amateur is be a "lover" of radio, one who studies it and appreciates all aspects of Amateur Radio as coherent whole, a complete system, if you will. One of the aspects of this system is Morse code, and therefore it is legitimate to demand proficiency in this aspect. Demanding proficiency in Morse is not a prerequisite to privileges in telephony, but a requisite in parallel with other, technical qualifications. Morse code is not an isolated skill, disconnected from any other aspect of Ham Radio, but an essential element, integrally linked to all the other elements.

Never the less, if the proficiency level in Morse is to be reduced, then the required level of technical qualifications should be made more rigorous. If such emphasis is to be made on telephony techniques, then a commensurate level of qualifications should be demonstrated. If Morse code proficiency is to be reduced, the technical qualifications must be increased. As well, the prohibition on the building of transmitting apparatus by "Basic" license holders must be abolished, as this goes counter to the purpose of the Amateur Radio Service, "…self-training, … …technical investigation by individuals who are interested in radio technique… ".

To reiterate:

A 5 WPM proficiency is useless and impractical; with modern training methods, a 10 WPM proficiency is as easy to achieve as 5 WPM. With this in mind, I sincerely believe that it is a mistake to drop the 12 WPM Morse requirement for HF privileges.

Any reduction in Morse proficiency must be balanced by an increase in technical qualifications along with the abolition of the prohibition on the building of transmitting apparatus by "Basic" license holders.

(Quite frankly, I would like to see re-established an examination scheme identical to the one in place prior to October 1990; a single examination, identical to the original "Amateur" exam: 10 WPM Morse, theory and regulations questions, diagrams and essays.)

Yours truly, E. C. Sieb, VA3ES

Sir, I feel that we need to go further than a simple reduction to 5 wpm in Morse proficiency. I feel we need to eliminate the requirement for any degree of Morse capability from new licencees and at the same time allow those users who know Morse already to continue to use it in their own band segments. As the Morse users decline that segment can be gradually freed for other modes, such as packet, telephony or other new modes. My reasons are:

Morse is no longer used for emergency service or general use except for a rapidly declining number of amateur operators. It has been replaced by superior methods. Morse is no longer taught to military radio operators as the number already in the service are sufficient to serve what needs there are. Aldiss lamps remain in navy use for short range visual signalling, and use a variant or Morse.

Morse impedes access to the hobby. Already the internet and cellular phones have decimated the hobby. Attendance at Hamfest declines by 15-25% per year for the same hamfest, year over year. Amateur Radio has become a geriatric hobby....I am 62.

Inspect a hamfest or amateur gathering....there are very few young people.

Those that want to keep Morse are an elitist group who want to exclude others from the bands as they like the empty morse bands we now have(A long way from the crowded bands of the 60's and 70's)

Removing the Morse requirement may be too little, too late, as Amateur radio is already in it's final death throes and is just bleeding out over the next few years to zero, killed off by cellular, internet and the archaic Morse requirement.

You may feel I paint a bleak picture, well I do, I have been there and the view is bleaker than my art.

Bill Jackson

Regarding the Proposal to Grant Full Operating Privileges in all Amateur Radio Frequency Bands Below 30 MHz to Amateur Radio Operators Holding a 5 word per minute (w.p.m.) Morse Code Qualification, I agree with the proposal but would like to see continued vigilance in ensuring the highest standards are met for the Operators examination.

Regards,

Peter Scovell

VE3LTI

Gentlemen: During the business meeting of the Brantford Amateur Radio Club , held in January, discussion turned to the proposal by Industry Canada to allow an amateur that holds a 5 wpm endorsement to operate on all HF Bands below 30 MHz.

After some discussion a motion was approved by the membership, that the club inform Industry Canada that the current regulations of 5 wpm on 10,80, and 160 metres, and 12 wpm on all other HF. bands be maintained as is.

I must point out however, that the vote on the motion was not unanimous as several members liked the idea, and a couple suggested that the endorsement be dropped entirely.

However , the majority feel that operation on the bands in question, might deteriorate if the endorsement is allowed to be relaxed.

Please accept this notice on behalf of the Brantford Amateur Radio Club

Sincerely

John David Amies VE3ZVR

Dear Sir,

I am re-submitting this comment as I neglected to include the Notice number and date on the earlier submission. This comment is materially unchanged in content. In response to the recent proposal to grant full operating privleges to persons holding 5 wpm and the basic qualification, I would comment as follows:

I would support this direction without reservation. It is an important first step toward the total removal of the cw requirement. I am slightly confused, however, over the reference to the basic qualification as the theoretical basis upon which access to the hf bands would be allowed. I would have thought that along with lowering the code requirement, there would have been a need for a concomitant increase in the required technical and regulatory knowlege domains. The advanced qualification would surely meet such a need.

Thank you for the opportunity to comment.

Sincerely,

Charles McNeil

To Chief, Authorization,

I hope that you pass this proposal, so that Canada can keep up with the rest of the world and instead of being a follower become a leader, by expediting the process quickly. I checked the web site for comments on this proposal to date and found none, does that mean that there is no interest or just slow moving bureaucracy?. I realize that the full 60 days is not up yet but hope that when it has passed that the RIC 2 would be amended quickly. I currently hold my 5wpm but because of hearing impairment am unable to achieve the 12 wpm standard. I hope that you consider the proposal favorably. Sincerely Bruce Bergman VE7 WSN

To Whomever this may concern:

I would like to submit my comments for consideration regarding

Proposal Notice #DGRB-001-01 ( A Proposal to grant full operating privileges in all amateur radio frequency bands below 30 MHz to amateur radio operators holding a 5 word per minute Morse Code qualification)

I am an amateur radio operator holding the call sign of VE7RCF.

I am in favour of adopting this proposal.

Thank you for considering my opinion.

Sincerely,

Jim Hogg To:Chief, Authorization Re: Notice No. DGRB-001-01 — A Proposal to Grant Full Operating Privileges in all Amateur Radio Frequency Bands Below 30 MHz to Amateur Radio Operators Holding a 5 word per minute (w.p.m.) Morse Code Qualification

Just thought I would send a line or two expressing my approval of the above proposal. I would like to encourage Industry Canada to go ahead with the proposal to grant full operating privileges to all Amateur Radio Operators Holding a 5 word per minute (w.p.m.) Morse Code Qualification. I truly feel this is a step in the right direction in light of the apparent move by other countries to also lower code requirements. Maintaining Morse Code requirements as a means of granting HF privileges given the fact that most maritime, military and government bodies have all but replaced this mode with satellite technology makes no sense at all. As your notice states even the World Radio Conference I believe is posed to remove it all together as a stipulated requirement in 2003.

Thank you for giving the ham community the opportunity to response.

Regards, Gerry Caines, VA3GRC

RE:

Notice No. DGRB-001-01 — A Proposal to Grant Full Operating Privileges in all Amateur Radio Frequency Bands Below 30 MHz to Amateur Radio Operators Holding a 5 word per minute (w.p.m.) Morse Code Qualification

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I fully support the reduction of the Morse requirement from 12 to 5wpm for full access to the Amateur bands below 30mhz.

Amateurs have many other modes which require more technical knowledge to master and therefore better serve the spirit of amateur radio, yet they are not required for access to these frequencies. I do not see that reducing (or dropping) the code requirement to be a detriment to Amateur radio as long as the knowledge and testing requirements to obtain an amateur license are kept up.

While I respect the supporters of morse, radio has come a long way since the need to have proficiency in the mode was a necessity.

Larry Nixon VE7LFN

Dear Sir: In regards to the proposal that RIC -2 be amended so that full operating privileges in all Amateur bands will be granted to Amateur Radio Operators holding the basic and 5 WPM Morse Code Qualification. Let's do it and do it soon as we will be a year behind the Americans on April 15, 2001.

I hold Basic - 5 WPM and Advanced qualifications. Hank Giroux VE3GRX address as RAC website

Dear Madam/Sir

I am writing in regards to the ongoing discussions with the requirement for Morse Code endorsement on an Amateur Radio license to operate below 30 MHZ.

As an amateur radio operator, I have not obtained my morse code endorsement and do not feel that it would make me a better operator or be of any significant benefit in the operation of amateur radio below 30 MHZ. This is just one more MODE of communication, as is digital signals and slow scan TV signals. Morse code is one of the least expensive mode to operate in, which would continue to interest operators towards that mode. Amateur operators most often continue to expand their operating modes as their interests expand, not as a requirement. If any thing this requirement for morse code is hindering the hobby, as more and more people head towards their computers to link between different countries and communicate on-line.

In order to perceive the amateur spectrum, I feel Industry Canada and the amateur radio community need to promote the hobby endlessly, as I am sure that the frequencies allotted to the amateur radio spectrum would be eaten up very quickly by other industry needs. With this in mind, Amateur Radio needs less restrictions to make it more interesting, than challenging to get involved with. Why have more restrictions than are necessary. This not to say that just anyone can operate within the spectrum, testing should be enhanced to ensure proper procedures are followed and enforced within the amateur community.

Don't get me wrong, morse code is in it's self an interesting mode of communication, but it should NOT be a "stepping stone" to get started in the hobby. I'm sure many people would disagree with me regarding morse code, as well as many I'm sure agree. I want to see the hobby continue in the future, and I don't feel that amateur radio will suffer for dropping this requirement, it can only enhance it's interest and make it more enjoyable.

Thanks in advance for this opportunity to voice my thoughts.

Yours Truly

Don Silver, VE3SIL

I am sending in my support for the proposed changes to the radio act that would eliminate the requirement for 12wpm and reduce it to 5wpm. I personally would prefer to see cw dropped altogether but for now, this will help. I am a volunteer examiner and everyone that I have examined for cw thus far has NOT gone on to use it on hf; they only get it in order to get on voice; not a good situation. I would say its great for those who wish to use it, but it "doesnt" make one a better operator on voice. But, as I say, the 5wpm will be better than nothing for now. Thanks Al Stark, VE7EHQ

TO: Chief, Authorization Industry Canada

February 20, 2001

The idea to reduce the morse code requirement for full Amateur privaleges to 5 words per minute is ill advised, thoughtless, detrimental to the Amateur service and is the a giant step in the degradation of the amateur bands to the point that there will be effectively, one big, uncontrolled CB band.

The promoters of this reduction in code requirements are first and foremost, the manufacturers of radio equipment and in particular, the agents in the U.S.A. and the magazines who look to maximize their own advertising profits who could not care less about the service as long as they can sell some product or products and make money. Whether it's CB radios or digital clocks is not their concern.

Also promoting the idea seems to be the FCC in the U.S.A. and, following along as sheep, Industry Canada both of whom see the throwing of the Amateur service to the wolves as a means of trimming their budgets.

Then, there also seems to be our own R.A.C. the upper echelons of which, with few exceptions rarely if ever turn a radio on.

For Industry Canada or "R.A.C." to suggest that we should follow the lead of the U.S.A. is the equivalent to suggesting that we should also be stupid enough to attack Iraq.

Further, the fact that morse is no longer used in commercial circles, is completely a non-issue. This is the AMATEUR SERVICE, not commercial and there will be many times when CW will be there when newer commercial systems fail. This has already happened.

Again, with the old system, if you will, a new Amateur spent the first six months on CW exclusively. This not only enabled he or she to become more proficient but also, even more importantly, it afforded the opportunity to learn proper operating procedures, develop good on-air practices and experience a sense of real achievement. What is now proposed would give no more sense of achievement than that of a CB'er which is zero.

It would be far better if Industry Canada reinstated Amateur fees and again took up it's rightful place as the regulatory and MONITORING authority rather than throwing us to the wolves.

If not, then listen up please, "breaker-breaker-breaker, got yer ears on good buddy"?

David Colton, VO1TK

Yes, I am in favor of dropping 12 words per minute to 5 words per min. I would prefer to drop the Morse code test in it's entirety as it has little to do with understand the Ham radio operations. Harold Thiessen VE7-HHT

Joan Thiessen VE7-JTX Subject: DGRB-001-01 I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification. Name: Robert McDonald Va7vb Warren Kean Ve7dpg

Ron Woody Va7ron

Subject: DGRB-001-01

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name: Wilf H.Barby, VE7QO

To Whom it may concern: I fully support giving full HF priveleges to amateurs with 5wpm.

Thank you

73 Ernie Davidson VE7BGB (held since 1966).

This letter is in regards to the proposal to allow full access to the amateur radio HF bands for holders of the 5wpm license.

I appose such an idea since I can see that it will cause chaos on the HF bands. The USA recently loosened the restrictions that were in place on their entry level license class and since that time the interference on the HF bands has gone up exponentially. In the past 6 months I have seen interference and jamming increase 10 fold. I frequently hear morse code being sent all over the traditionally ssb portion of the 20 and 15 meter bands. This may not be malicious in intent (rather a lack of experience) but it does cause problems. I feel a better solution would be to grant access to the cw portion of all the HF bands only. This was how the old Amateur class license was done. Perhaps (like the old amateur class) an endorsement can be offered after 6 months or a year for ssb on 10 meters.

If the individual is serious enough to want to gain full privileges on the HF bands then expecting them to write a higher level exam to achieve this is not out of the question.

I worry that proposals like this will become more frequent in the urge to bring more people into the hobby. We must not loose sight of the fact that Amateur Radio is a hobby that requires a certain level of skill and an understanding of radio fundamentals.

Yours Truly Don Carlgren VE6ZT Amateur since 1982

Subject: DGRB-001-01 I DO NOT support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF

Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name: ELIZABETH BAGGOO

Callsign: (If any) VA7TK

I would like to see holders of 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification have more access to the HF Bands but NOT FULL PRIVILEGES.

OPTIONS THAT COULD BE CONSIDERED:

· Create a novice category for both CW and Phone on all HF bands. Callsign would have to reflect this category.

· Give permission for 5wpm to operate on CW and Phone on 160/80/40/10 Meters . WITHHOLD 15M and 20M until 12wpm attained or accumulated three to five years of operating experience).

Subject: DGRB-001-01

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name: Tony Fonseca

We are in full support of the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5wpm Morse Code Qualification Chris & Debbie Collins

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Cam Bremner

Subject: DGRB-001-01 I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HFAmateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification. Regards John Schouten, VA7VP

Hello

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Graig Pearen

I OPPOSE the proposal to give full operating privilegesin all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualifications. Name: Pete Pel

I do not support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification. Leonard G. Ward

Dear Mr Skora:

I am writing to express my opposition to the proposal by the Radio Amateurs of Canada (RAC) to allow full access to the High-Frequency (HF) Amateur Radio spectrum by Amateurs who hold a morse code qualification of only 5 words per minute (5WPM).

I assert that Morse Code is a relevant skill and a reasonable requirement for any Radio Amateur having access to the HF Amateur Bands. This is because Morse Code remains an integral and important aspect of everyday operations on the HF bands. In terms of volume of communications, Morse is much more significant than any digital or advanced communications techniques now employed by Amateurs. It is by nature a technique which requires the operator to be trained and this training is in itself a valuable discipline.

I believe our current system of certification provides an important incentive for new Radio Amateurs to develop their abilities to operate using this important mode.

I would make only one suggestion to improve our current system of certification: permit Radio Amateurs with 5WPM qualifications to operate on all HF bands with a maximum bandwidth of 1kHz between 4MHz and 28MHz. This would provide a better opportunity for newer Radio Amateurs to develop their operating skills in Morse Code, should they accept the challenge implicit in our current certification regime which now restricts access to those same HF bands to those who have passed a test at twelve words per minute (12WPM). Once qualified at 12WPM, Amateurs would be permitted emissions with a maximum bandwidth of 6kHz, as the current regime provides.

Now, to refer to the points raised by RAC in their proposal:

““this proposal would give Canadian radio amateurs operating privileges similar to those currently accorded to United States amateurs who successfully pass a 5 w.p.m. Morse test””.

This arguement is not relevant for the following reasons:

- Canada is an independant country and can decide on matters of certification standards for itself. In such matters, Canada is not obliged to repeat the errors of other countries.

- If such international standarisation was a requirement or even desirable, why did RAC not advocate for a twenty words per minutes code test for Canadian Amateurs when that was the top standard in the United States for most of the last fifty years?

- The contemporary differences in certification standards between Canadian and US Amateurs currently have no bearing on the operating privilages of Amateurs from either country when visiting the other country, no more that they did before the US lowered its Amateur certification standards. The operating privilages of visiting Amateurs are regulated by a 49-year-old international treaty, not by comparing certificates on a case-by-case basis. ““ongoing debate in the amateur radio community concerning the validity of the retention of the international radio regulations’’ requirement for Morse Code competency for operation below 30 MHz., given the (recent) removal of Morse for international maritime communications and its declining use by government and military organizations."

Again, this is not relevant. The purpose of Amateur certification is to certify people to operate as Radio Amateurs. That other services have different standards for certifying operators, or that other services may or may not use Morse Code has no bearing on what happens in the Amateur spectrum. There is no operational cross-over between the Amateur service and those other services mentioned by RAC and therefore no neccessity for an ill-considered harmonisation between dissimilar services.

A number of administrations have proposed that a review of the international regulations governing the Amateur Services be placed on the agenda of the World Radio Conference scheduled for 2003. The Proposed review is supported by the International Amateur Radio Union, which has consulted with its member organizations in over 180 countries during the past four years””.

To act now presupposes the success of those proposing a deletion of the Morse requirement in ITU regulations. The debate has not yet opened at the ITU and the proposal may not pass. To make a change would implicitly bind Canada to a position that it may or may not take.

““RAC has consulted with the Canadian Amateur Community in various ways including web site surveys, message boards, analysis of e-mail and postal correspondence and letters to the editor of The Canadian Amateur magazine, as well as on-the-air discussions and fora. It is evident that a majority of Canadian Amateurs are supportive of dropping the 12 W.P.M. test.””

RAC enjoys the direct, paid support of fewer than 7,000 Canadians, perhaps no more than 15% of Canada's Radio Amateurs. I suggest RAC's "evidence" is suspect for the following reasons:

- web site surveys and message boards are notoriously unreliable and employ absolutely none of the scientific rigour employed by reputable opinion surveyors. They are not a reliable predictor of general opinions. They are only a reflection of the participants. Even RAC will admit that the participants are few in number.

- E-mail, postal correspondence and letters to the editor of TCA are also unreliable guages of opinion. TCA is circulated only in English, and only to those 6,900 paying memners of RAC. Those who write such letters are an even smaller subset of that fraction of Canada's Amateurs.

- Such analysis is dependent on the prejudices of the analyst. RAC has provided no evidence that it has brought any scientific or intellectual rigour to its analysis. RAC's conclusions may therefore be regarded with some doubt about their reliability. If RAC were honest on the matter, RAC would state that its analysis shows that a majority of Canadian Amateurs favour abolition of the Morse requirement, not merely the abolition of the 12wpm test. Such an assertion would be no more reliable than any of RAC's other assertions.

- Public policy is made by agencies like yours and by your political masters in Parliament through a careful analysis of the public interest. RAC's consulation, however earnest, fails to meet any reasonable standard for considering the public interest.

In sum, I am opposed to this proposal. Although I am a member and supporter of RAC, I believe RAC's proposal is faulty and inimical to the public interest.

Yours Truly,

Dave Goodwin I do not support Industry Canada's proposal to grant full HF privileges to holders of 5 WPM Morse code. Please do not allow our service to be degraded any further, by continuously lowering the standard until there is none left. Rod Reid

I am opposed to the granting of full HF privilages to those that only have 5 WPM Code. Please do not do this to us! Theresa Reid

Subject: DGRB-001-01 I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF

Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the

5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name:G.STEVEN FOULSTON

This is an excellent idea, and 100 percent in FAVOUR, it would give a boost to the hobby which has one foot in the GRAVE!, for many years!! It needs new blood !!!! Regards ED Hohertz

I do support this new implement. Brent Lyons.

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name: Lee Woldanski

Chief, Authorization Dear Sir,

I wish to express my opinion towards the proposed change to the granting of full HF privileges to those operators who have proficiency of 5 wpm International Morse Code.

I have had my Amateur licence for over 20 years and have held it as a great privilege. It was as difficult for me to learn Morse Code then as it would be for anyone else trying to learn it today; I do not have the erroneous opinion that all of the "CW programmes and aids" replace a good work ethic in learning the code. Several times I felt like giving up but I knew that the ONLY reason I could use for "giving up" was that I was too lazy to put the effort into it!

The hands of time have advanced almost 25 years... who would have known that CW has become my passion in Ham radio?!? This year I joined the Fists CW Club because I wanted to have a small voice in keeping Morse Code as part of Ham radio. DX'ing just wouldn't be the same without having that common thread between people of different cultures and languages all over the world. I cannot imagine how many people I would NOT have met through Ham radio if it had not been for CW and the International Morse code. Every time I send a CQ or answer a CQ on CW, I am telling that person in Russia or Bulgaria or Namibia that I am proud to have learned Morse Code, that Canadian Amateurs have pride in how they operate and that we welcome other peoples of any culture or language to communicate with us.

What favour are you doing to perspective Amateurs to tell them "it is OK to learn Morse Code at 5 wpm"? Just who else in the entire world communicates in CW at that speed? Would YOU be proud to tune up on a frequency such as 14.025 MHz and then proceed to send out a CQ at 5 wpm for all the world to hear and then to let everyone know that you are a "fully privileged Canadian Amateur radio operator"? I would bet you'd only do it once.

So what if every other country in the world lets new Hams believe they have achieved something by a 5 wpm standard?

There are multiple avenues for new Hams to travel ...with or without Morse Code. The largest degree of experimenting and new developments are likely to occur outside of the HF bands on modes other than CW or SSB. The Amateur hobby has to develop into those areas to keep itself viable in the face of modern technology pulling people away from Ham radio. It is of no less importance to keep the pride of being a good CW operator part of the Amateur hobby as well. It certainly won't be done by sending the message that "5 words per minute is good enough"!

Sincerely,

John VE7NI

I agree with and support Industry Canada's proposed changes to RIC 2. I'm in the process of learning morse code so that I can operate in amatuer HF bands. I also hope that Industry Canada will move quickly to remove the code requirements entirely when no longer require by international requirements. yours truly

Mike Mclaren

Subject: DGRB-001-01

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code qualification. Name: Betty Larkman

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

P. John Konkal

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF amateur radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse code qualification. nick van helsdingen

Subject: DGRB-001-01 I do not support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF

Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the

5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name: Robert Robertson

DGRB-001-01 I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF

Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the

5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name: David Barrett

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Al Coupe’

Watering down the requirements for HF operation is the only way that I can describe what's happening in HF operation worldwide. All the citizen band operators must have strong lobbying powers to government. Listen in to the cb band right now. Hear that? Disgusting isn't it? That's what needs to be prevented on HF. Are Morse Code requirements the only way to do that? No...... but I haven't heard any genuine replacement form of testing where the future operator needs to work to obtain his/her qualifications. The present testing for the basic exam is a joke. If your true intention is to eliminate an outdated mode from being the dertiminant on whether a person gets full HF priviliges, then please come up with a tough set of exams to replace it. Otherwise this whole thing can only be seen as a move to further deregulate another aspect of government, resulting in less than desirable results. Regards. , Brent R

To: [email protected] > > Subject: DGRB-001-01 > > I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF > Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the > 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification. > > Name: Howard D. Smith I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name: Scott Diamond

Dear Mr. Skora, I too am a log time RAC member and while I don't fully support Dave's position regarding Morse Code, I do support his position that RAC's proposal does not clearly represent the opinions of the Total Canadian Amateur community.

I don't believe that RAC speaks on this or any other issue for the majority of Canadian Amateurs. They certainly have not actively solicited the "vote" of the members at large and as far a I know, they certainly haven't asked non- RAC members their opinions.

Regards,

Gerry Hohn

Dear Industry Canada,

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Thank you. Regards, John Sharpe

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code qualification.

James R. Woodbridge

Subject: DGRB-001-01 I absolutely support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF

Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

This will bring Canada into line with many other countries which have similar rules already in place,

I also hope that plans are in the works to take advantage of the removal of 'knowledge of Morse Code' which is on the horizon and removal of which has already been included in arrangements made by other jurisdictions.

Name Alan Faint

I would favour giving additional, not all, amateur H.F. spectrum to 5 wpm > amateur license holders if the technical and operating requirement was > raised substantially. I do not support the proposal as it is laid out. I > do not favour making the H.F. bands easier to obtain. In past years a > newly aspiring amateur radio operator would spend a period of time at a > club or with a more experienced operator learning the Morse code. Through > this close relationship between mentor and student operating and technical > techniques were also discussed. The student had a far better idea of what > was acceptable and not. In today's scenario I can name many individuals > who did not even open a book to write the present Basic examination and > passed. Others who spent a weekend memorising the contents of a book to > pass their exam only because they were driven to by a friend of family > member. These cases were certainly not because the individual had a > higher than normal understanding of amateur radio. With little effort > comes little asteam for ones accomplishments in obtaining their amateur > radio license. A comment or a similar one would be "Big deal if I loose > my license. Its no skin off of back." I feel the present qualifications > for the Basic license nothing more than a token examination. > > Over the last 5-8 years specifically I have noticed a large increase in > poor operating practices including profane language, jamming other amateur > radio operators, and the inability to operate their own radio equipment > within Industry Canada guidelines. > > There is also a lack of authority present on the amateur frequencies. One > of the things I frequently hear across the amateur vhf/uhf repeaters is > how an individual just purchased his new handheld, mobile, or base radio > and is seeking information on opening it up so it will transmit on > commercial frequencies. It seems it is almost impossible to get anything > done when an individual is abusing the privilege of amateur radio > operator. The process is cumbersome and needs to be streamlined. It > still is a privilege in is not? A privilege granted by Industry Canada. > > I am a amateur radio operator and I also work in the telecommunications > industry. I was never in favour of Industry Canada letting the amateur > radio community police themselves. The lack of presence by Industry > Canada in dealing spectrum and regulatory issues within H.F., VHF, UHF, > and above frequencies is really starting to rear its head. Our commercial > frequencies are taking more hits each year by unlicensed, unapproved, > programmable amateur radio equipment being used in the commercial > spectrum. In the same token there has been a ever increasing presents of > unlicensed individuals using the amateur frequencies for commercial > applications and chatting. Marine radios being used by farms and ranches. > All groups are starting to experience increased problems in this area. > Penalties the for infractions carry little weight or consequence. I > strongly believe Industry Canada needs to turn around and once again > enforce the rules and regulations pertaining to commercial and amateur > radio use. Or even better yet reinstate the Department of Communications > (or like dept.) and give them the funds and support they need to > effectively administer these areas. The problem is escalating and right > now would be a large job to start, however in 5 or 10 years the problem is > only going to be a very much larger one. > > I have been a licensed amateur radio operator since 1969. I love the > hobby with its many avenues for exploring various modes and technologies. > Amateur radio has and can provide a valued contribution to the community > for special events and emergency response. However I am not willing to > sacrifice quality for quantity. I believe privileges have to be earned, > rather than granted because of lack of willingness to administer them. It > seems like a real good area that our federal governments winfall of funds > could be put to very good use. > > > Pat Flynn

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the

5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name: Larry K. Wagner

Greetings:

I do not support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the '5 wpm Morse Code Qualification' unless these operators are required to dedicate the equivalent time it would take to learn the code towards advancing their understanding of the modern technology responsible for the obsolescence of CW.

I am concerned that the reduction of the morse code skill requirements will make the advanced amateur ticket too easy to obtain and result in an overall lowering of the standards. I am concerned that many 5 WPM licensed radio amateurs do not appear to have adequate technical skills to gain a proper understanding of the operation of their equipment nor do many demonstrate the dedication to improve their knowledge levels.

It is my opinion that the effort it takes to achieve a 12 WPM skill level is a measure of a candidate's level of dedication and interest towards amateur radio. A requirement that would require an equivalent effort towards advancing their understanding of modern technology would help ensure the current standard of proficiency is maintained and provide an equivalent reward for motivated individuals.

Tom Alldread

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification. William S. Ingles

Subject: DGRB-001-01 I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HFAmateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the5 wpm Morse Code Qualification. Bruce Cox

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in the bands under 30Mhz. To all amateurs who hold the 5 w.p.m. license. Bob Haslett I support the proposal to give full privileges in all HF Amateur Radio Frequency bands to holders of the 5 WPM code Qualifications.

Vern Gollmar

Subject: DGRB-001-01 I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF

Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the

5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name: Doug Franks

Callsign: VE6VD

Name: Vicky Franks

Callsign:VE6VKY

Name:J Franks

Callsign:VE6JWF

Respectfully submitted: Sir/Madam: I support the proprosal to accord full operating privilages to Radio Amateurs, who are now certified at 5 wpm, and all who in the future can attain 5 wpm Morse, in Amateur bands, 30 Mhz and below. Joe Lundrigan, Edmonton VE6JL

Subject: DGRB-001-01 I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF

Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the

5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name: Keith A. Manhard

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the

5 wpm Morse Code Qualification. Anne Caulfield

Dear Industry Canada Representative,

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

As a new (1 year) Amateur who is studying to obtain the 5 wpm Qualification, I feel strongly that all HF bands should be open to those qualified for 5 wpm Morse Code operations. Opening all HF Bands to 5 wpm holders will encourage many to obtain their 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification, and will enable them to participate in the full spectrum of operation that can be enjoyed.

I believe that seeing this proposal through will inject more life and energy into Amateur Radio operations in Canada.

Thank you,

Stephen

Name: Stephen C. Hawtree

Subject: DGRB-001-01

I Do Not support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name: Gus Samuelson

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HFAmateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the5 wpm Morse Code Qualification. A.J. Fisk

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Ian McLaughlin

Greetings. I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF amateur radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm morse code qualification. I have tried for years to achieve the higher speeds, but at my age [68] it just does not click. Yours truly Karl Bremerman ve7opa

Subject: DGRB-001-01

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name: David E. Holman, Ctech

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Chris

Subject: DGRB-001-01 I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF

Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the

5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name:Doug Lofgren

Subject: DGRB-001-01

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name: David Nelson

To Whom it May Concern, I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Tina LaFrance

Good day,

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Hugh A. Mortimer

Dear Sirs:

In response to you request from the amateur radio community for input on the proposal to afford full access to the licensed bands below 30Mhz to amateur radio operators with 5 wpm and the Basic license I would like to offer the following comments: 1) Morse code, although an enjoyable form of communication and a thrifty user of spectrum, is no longer used by commercial or military services as means of communication. In particular the need to have a high speed knowledge of Morse code in order to communicate with a control or emergency station is no longer a major concern.

2) As a number of amateur radio bodies and their corresponding government authorities have made a similar move to reduce Morse requirements, the need for similarity of standards to ensure safe and proper use of spectrum is becoming less of an issue.

3) It is quite likely that the requirement for a knowledge of Morse code will be removed from international agreements at the next World Radio Conference.

Therefore the Radio Amateurs of Canada proposal is one that is reasonable and prudent, and has my full support. Industry Canada should give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Sincerely yours,

Ron Gillies

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 or less wpm Morse Code Qualifications. Name: Rick Stevens

Subject: DGRB-001-01

I DO NOT support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Jim Dean

Subject: DGRB-001-01

I DO NOT support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Alan S. Dean

I support the proposal to give full operating priveleges in all HF bands ( amateur to holders of the 5 wpm qualification JOHN RICHARDSON VE7IKQ,

I , Hendrik van Dalen / VA7HV am in favour of extending full hf privilidges to amateurs holding their basic and 5 word per minute code endorsement Hank van Dalen

Re: DGRB-001-01

I DO NOT support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF amateur radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm morse code qualification.

Name: Garry V. Hammond

Subject: DGRB-001-01 We support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Donn Hilton

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification. Name: Charles G. Morgan

I recommend giving CW ONLY operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification. As well SSB provileges should be granted on 80 meters immediately to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification. I do NOT support the elimination of CW from the amateur radio frequencies through the elimination of the morse code qualifications and restrictions.

Aja Norgaard

Go for it;; But dont complain when some cb'er comes on pushing a kilowatt, screaming "10/4 Good Buddy" Not much choice really,"use it or lose it"

I'll see on the cw band.

VE7HRC.

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification. Keeping Amateurs off the bands becasu they couldn't or wouldn't do the 12 wpm Morse code is silly to say the least. The criteria should be technical not a memorization exercise Name: Keith Watson

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification. Gary Robertson Subject: DGRB-001-01 I DO NOT support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF

Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the

5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name: Dan Goodwin

I support the proposal of giving full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio Frequencies to holders of 5 WPM Morse Code Qualifications. That requirement will still make the privilege one worth working for. Lloyd Clark

I Do Not support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name: Yuri Onipko

I do not support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the

5 wpm Morse code qualification regards, ted nawrocki

I do not support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification. 5 wpm is no test of skill and will not help the holder to develop proper operating procedures, either on cw or voice.

Laurence Stanwood

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification. Bob Stroud VE7TMO

Breakaway Vacations (BC) Ltd

agree to full privileges Leonard J. Kassian

No I DON'T support the latest RAC proposal for further downgrading of the amateur service. A much better solution is to allow all current and future holders of the 5wpm ticket to be able to operate on all 9 HF amateur bands, instead of the current paltry 3 they now have (160,80,10m).

How is a 5wpm ticket holder supposed to practise on the air??? Many don't have room for 160/80m ants. With the current sunspot cycle now on the decline, the upper HF bands will be depleted in a few years.

Give the 5 wpm fellows access to all 9 HF bands. They will soon have their cw speed up to the required 12 wpm.

CW is not dead. It's used 90 % of the time on 160M. Why? Cuz with a pair of 250Hz wide cw filters in place on RX, noise drops from 50uV, down to 1uv.

CW is the only mode used for EME(Earth-moon-earth) contacts.

These digital modes have come and gone now for years. In practise, amtor, psk-31, pactor, etc, are all but useless. The only 3 modes on HF that have stood the test of time are CW,SSB, RTTY.

Thankyou

Jim Thomson VE7RF

People: I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF (High Frequency) Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Richard Woods

Dear Sir or Madam, I DO NOT support the proposal to reduce the existing morse test to 5 wpm. If we are going to keep morse code as a requirement for access to the HF bands then let's keep the speed at a useful level. In my opinion 5 wpm is just a token gesture and a totally useless speed even to read repeater ID's. Most people who have never tried to learn the code think that it is easier to learn at a 5 wpm speed that at 12 wpm. This absolute garbage. With the proper learning method anyone can learn to send and receive at a 12 wpm rate in three months, provided they put in the effort. If the old fashioned method of teaching is used then the same time would be required to attain 5 wpm. Until such times as the International Community decide that Morse Code is no longer a requirement let's keep the speed at 12 wpm.

S. J. Milligan. VE7ALN

Subject: DGRB-001-01

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name: Michael Fleming I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5wpm Morse Code qualification. Ben Kendall

VE6FN, VE6ZZZ, VA3ZZZ

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification Gary A. Stewart

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Christopher John VE8-CDJ Katey John VE8-LKJ

I the support the proposal of allow full privileges as laid out by industry canada VA6SG VE6WPY Harold Watson

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands below 30MHz. to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification. Doug Davies VA7DD

Hello:

As an Amateur Radio operator of almost 41 years, I support the change of the CW requirement to 5 words per minute.

Regards Alan Muir

I do not support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the five-word-per-minute Morse Code Qualification. Russell Down

I am in favour of the five wpm qualification for full HF priviliges Don Wallace

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification. Raymond E. Scott

I support the INDUSTRY CANADA PROPASL TO ALLOW FULL PRIVELEDGES TO AMATURES WITH 5 WORDS PER MINUITE MORSE CODE and basic privledgs VA6SG VE6WPY Harold Watson

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification. Gary W. Mace

VE7SII

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Mike Jennings VE8MJ

Subject: DGRB-001-01 I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF

Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the

5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name: Clifford Krause

Callsign: VE8CK

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the

5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

I Think that its long past time

Callsign: VE7TAG

Terry A Goodwin

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

R Spencer

Callsign: VE7RXS I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification. Name: Gary Jacek Callsign: VE7GGJ VA7GGJ

I support the proposal to give full priveleges to all amateurs holding a 5wpm morse qualification, in the spectrum below 30 Mhz. All HF bands. 73 de Wayne C. {Corky} Murray VE7ZDX [email protected]

Subject: DGRB-001-01 I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF

Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the

5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name: Kevin Lewis callsign-VE7KLL

From VE7ACF, VA7TF

I sent you a message with the bottom statement. However, after really thinking about it, Please remove my "comment" As below, from your data...I now have mixed feelings about the 5 and 12 WPM.

If IC is to "toughen the Basic and ADVANCED exams, then OK, but if not.....NO!!! KEEP THE 12 WPM in Canada. We do not need glorified "CB" operators.

Also, what will happen with receptacle agreements with other countries? If we (Canada) have only 5 WPM CW, we would be limited to the other countries' privileges.

Tony Fonseca, VE7ACF, VA7TF

Subject: DGRB-001-01

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name: Tony Fonseca

Callsign: VE7ACF

Regards,

Tony VA7TF, VE7ACF

Dear Sirs:

This e-mail is to support the proposal of giving full operating privileges in all HF amateur radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm morse code qualifications.

My own opinion is that the morse requirement is not a useful function at all in this era of advanced electronics and is there only as a barrier. To me it would make much more sense to limit some bands to holders of advanced tickets, if it makes any sense to set limits at all.

Yours truly

W.D. Robb VE7 ZDR

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to the holder of the 5 wpm morse code qualifications. VE7JGG

I do NOT support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name: Chris Allingham

Callsign: VE3FU and VO2AC

There are only days left to respond to Industry Canada's proposal to grant full operating privileges in all Amateur Radio frequency bands below 30 MHz to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Let's send a record number of responses to Industry Canada so the message will be clear as to what Amateurs want. All it takes for your opinion to be considered is to send an e-mail similar to the sample that follows. Expand the response if you like. If you do not support this proposal, you should also act now to make your views known.

Please forward this message to all amateurs or anyone with an interest in

Amateur Radio. Let's demonstrate that a huge number of Canadians are interested in this subject and want to be counted.

The full text of the proposal is at http://strategis.ic.gc.ca/SSG/sf05327e.html

Sample Message:

To: [email protected] Subject: DGRB-001-01

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF

Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the

5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name:G.Clare Findlay

Callsign:VE6GCF

***************************************************************************

Please act now and pass this message on to others you know.

73 - Frank VE7AV

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges to the 5 wpm class.

Pete VE7FY

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification. P.J. Campbell VE7DIT.

Subject: DGRB-001-01

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name: Dayle D Backus

Callsign: (If any) Ve7OBD

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Greg Merkley VE7GJM

Hi, I support the proposal to give full operating privileges on all HF Amateur Radio Frequency Bands to the holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Nazaire Simon VO2NS

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequencies below 30MHZ to holders of the 5wpm Morse Code qualification. Richard Hobbis VE7RLH

I support the proposal to give operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequencey banda to holders of 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification Larry Berket VE7DTI

Subject: DGRB-001-01

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Peter Thomas VE7PT

Please note that I DO NOT support the initiative to give full operating privileges in the Amateur HF Bands to Holders of the 5 WPM Morse Code Certificate. This will turn the Amateur Bands into nothing more than glorified "Citizen's Band's", such as now exist on 11 meters(27-38Mhz) Sincerely; Greg J. Coultis VE6IC Calgary, Alberta.

I forgot to give following information Ref: DGRB-001-01 I DO NOT support the initiative to allow full operating priveleges to people who only have the 5 WPM Amateur Certificate. Signed: Greg J. Coultis VE6IC Calgary Alta.

MY 'AGAINST THE FLOW' RESPONSE ======Greetings:

I do not support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the '5 wpm Morse Code Qualification' unless these operators are required to dedicate the equivalent time it would take to learn the code towards advancing their understanding of the modern technology responsible for the obsolescence of CW.

I am concerned that the reduction of the morse code skill requirements will make the advanced amateur ticket too easy to obtain and result in an overall lowering of the standards. I am concerned that many 5 WPM licensed radio amateurs do not appear to have adequate technical skills to gain a proper understanding of the operation of their equipment nor do many demonstrate the dedication to improve their knowledge levels.

It is my opinion that the effort it takes to achieve a 12 WPM skill level is a measure of a candidate's level of dedication and interest towards amateur radio. A requirement that would require an equivalent effort towards advancing their understanding of modern technology would help ensure the current standard of proficiency is maintained and provide an equivalent reward for motivated individuals.

Lawrence Kyle VE4SS

Dear Industry Canada:

I wish to express my strong support for the proposal to grant full operating privileges to holders of the 5 wpm morse code qualification. In addition, I support any future move to remove the morse code requirement completely. I have full Advanced qualification with 12 wpm so I would gain no personal advantage from the change, but rather beleive it to be in the public interest. As a local emergency communictaions coordinator I see many potential amateur operators disuaded by having to learn morse code. The submission by the Radio Amateurs of Canada clearly outlines the reasons why these changes are appropriate. Morse Code is acting as an unnecessary barrier for many wishing operate on HF, and is a disincentive to recruiting new amateurs. Amateur Service qualification should emphasize technical and operating proficiency and not proficiency in morse code that most have no need or interest in knowing.

Thank you for the opportunity to comment.

Yours truly,

J. Douglas Steventon, VE7EPT

I oppose the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF amateur radio frequency bands to holders of he 5 wpm Morse code qualification .

V. J. V. Carroll - VA7VC

Greetings: > > I do not support the proposal to give full operating privileges > in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the '5 wpm Morse > Code > Qualification' unless these operators are required to dedicate the > equivalent time it would take to learn the code towards advancing their > understanding of the modern technology responsible for the obsolescence > of CW. > > I am concerned that the reduction of the morse code > skill requirements will make the advanced amateur ticket too easy to > obtain and result in an overall lowering of the standards. I am > concerned that many 5 WPM licensed radio amateurs do not appear to have > adequate technical skills to gain a proper understanding of the > operation of their equipment nor do many demonstrate the dedication to > improve their knowledge levels. > > It is my opinion that the effort it takes to achieve a 12 WPM > skill level is a measure of a candidate's level of dedication and > interest > towards amateur radio. A requirement that would require an equivalent > effort towards advancing their understanding of modern technology would > help ensure the current standard of proficiency is maintained and > provide an equivalent reward for motivated individuals. > Aiden L. Nugent > VE7DHZ (Formerly VO1HQ,1964-1969, VE6AYE, 1969-1976, VE7DHZ, 1976-)

There are only days left to respond to Industry Canada's proposal to grant full operating privileges in all Amateur Radio frequency bands below 30 MHz to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification. Let's send a record number of responses to Industry Canada so the message will be clear as to what Amateurs want. All it takes for your opinion to be considered is to send an e-mail similar to the sample that follows. Expand the response if you like. If you do not support this proposal, you should also act now to make your views known. Please forward this message to all amateurs or anyone with an interest in Amateur Radio. Let's demonstrate that a huge number of Canadians are interested in this subject and want to be counted.

The full text of the proposal is at http://strategis.ic.gc.ca/SSG/sf05327e.html

Sample Message: ***************************************************************************

To: [email protected]

Subject: DGRB-001-01

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name: Callsign: (If any) ***************************************************************************

Please act now and pass this message on to others you know. 73 - Frank VE7AV ======MY 'AGAINST THE FLOW' RESPONSE ======Greetings:

I do not support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the '5 wpm Morse Code Qualification' unless these operators are required to dedicate the equivalent time it would take to learn the code towards advancing their understanding of the modern technology responsible for the obsolescence of CW.

I am concerned that the reduction of the morse code skill requirements will make the advanced amateur ticket too easy to obtain and result in an overall lowering of the standards. I am concerned that many 5 WPM licensed radio amateurs do not appear to have adequate technical skills to gain a proper understanding of the operation of their equipment nor do many demonstrate the dedication to improve their knowledge levels.

It is my opinion that the effort it takes to achieve a 12 WPM skill level is a measure of a candidate's level of dedication and interest towards amateur radio. A requirement that would require an equivalent effort towards advancing their understanding of modern technology would help ensure the current standard of proficiency is maintained and provide an equivalent reward for motivated individuals.

Tom Alldread VA7TA

Subject: DGRB-001-01 I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification. I would also support to having 1 ham basic license and dropping the advanced as a separate qualification.

Name: Kenneth Berg

Callsign: VE7KEN, VA7KB

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name: Robert Lee

Callsign: VE6REL

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio Frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code qualifications.

Norman M. Ellison - VE7FEQ, licensed since 1961

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification. R. Grout - VE7GRB

Subject: DGRB-001-01

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name:Marcel G. Lemay

Callsign: VE7TSF

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name: Mike Rossner

Callsign: (If any) VA7MR

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all Amateur Radio Frequency bands to holders of the 5WPM morse code qualification. Or better still, dump CW as a hurdle & reinstate the old digital license requirement. Leave CW to those of us who like it, & approach a more 'modernistic' requirement for 'proof of competency'. D.Keith Harrington VE7IHS

I Do Not support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name: Randall D. Rowe Callsign: VE6BOJ

Subject: DGRB-001-01 I DO NOTsupport the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF

Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the

5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name:Clem Bedard

Callsign: VE7DEK

Subject: DGRB-001-01 I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification. Name: Larry Langston Callsign: (If any) VE6LLL

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Hugh Greenwood VE7 MDA

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification. I feel that in this age, the regulations should be further amended to exclude any requirement for Morse Code.

W.E. Brand VE7 TDB

Subject: DGRB-001-01 > >I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur >Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification. > >Name: Ron McFadyen, President Yukon Amateur radio Association > >Callsign: VY1RM

I support the proposal of giving all H F privileges to those holding 5 word Morse code & to new hams as they complete the course John VE7-SDJ

I support the proposal to grant full operating privileges to all Amateurs using the HF Amateur Radio Frequency bands, and possessing a 5 wpm Morse code qualification. The deregulationn of the "General" service some years ago led to serious abuses. We would not like to see such problems in the Amateur bands.

Ford Warner, Victoria BC VEE7DDF

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification. I have been an Amateur Radio Operator for nearly 50 years. I LOVE the CW mode, and passed the highest level of Operator Certificate in both Canada and the United States (23 wpm). While Morse Code is seen to be nearly obsolete because of the many advances of technology, who can foresee what future disaster might occur which would result in our survival depending on some continuing knowledge and experience in Morse Code.

Also, I see the need to encourage the growth of the Amateur Radio Community, while retaining at least a modest knowledge of Morse Code. Thus, I fully support the proposal to allow all Amateur Operators with this rudimentary Morse Code 5 wpm requirement. Murray Strome, VE7WMS (and KJ4M)

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all the HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5wpm Morse Code Qualification.

R.S. Whittle, VE7DCI

Dear Sirs: Yes i,m in favour of dispensing with the twelve minute morse code for the advanced amateur certificate,the code is vastly outdated but should be replaced with a stringent exam of operating procedures such as respect for fellow amateurs while operation of their respective amateur stations. Sincerely ours C M Allen VE7CMA

Subject: DGRB-001-01 I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HFAmateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Eric Colmer, VE7CCJ

Victoria, B.C. V8V 2T8

Hello

I agree that 5 wpm should be all that is required for HF operations (in fact no CW would be fine)

Regards

John Turgoose Accredited Examiner VE3NFK 2nd Class Radio Operator

(now owner of a computer store!!)

John Turgoose

Subject: DGRB-001-01 I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name: D. A. Andrews

Callsign: (VE7 DIX)

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio Frequency bands to holders of the 4 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

All amateur radio operators should do far more phone patches and radiograms for the public so that they know what to do in an emergency. Mike VE7BOF Kelowna, B.C.

Industry Canada has, in response to a recommendation from Radio Amateurs of Canada, proposed to drop the 12 WPM amateur radio testing requirement. Here is my take on the situation.

As recently as ten years ago, CW radio transmissions held some unique and special advantages. They used a narrower bandwidth than any other transmission. They could get through thinner signal-to-noise conditions than any other transmission. They were the best way to get communications through crowded bands, stormy conditions, and long-distance paths. They were the least common denominator to rely on in emergencies. Moreover, the CW testing require- ment kept half-serious amateurs from plugging up HF bands as a cheap substitute for long-distance telephony. The simplicity of the signal made it the best choice for home-brew equipment experimentation. All that has changed, or is changing.

A technique called coherent CW reception, implemented with computers, can get signals through a much thinner bandwidth than conventional CW, on thinner noise margins (by upwards of 20 db sometimes) by having the computer recover the timing of the signals and using it to filter the signal more tightly. Given a compar- able amount of bandwidth, a technique called CLOVER can get an order of magnitude more data through. When making contacts through crowded bands, the on-off keying technique can be reused in the form of hellschrieber communications, which can be produced and tuned in the same way as CW, and displayed with a computer, eliminating more of CW's unique advantages. The growth of the internet and reduction of long- distance telephony tariffs has obviated the need for a test to keep out half-serious amateurs. The advent of economical digital signal processors has transformed the kinds of equipment used in home-brew experimentation. Anybody serious about emergency-preparedness will probably have a satellite connection.

This is not to say that CW has outlived its usefulness or that it should no longer be used. There are dozens of situations where CW is simply amazingly suited to the job. That said, the practical reasons why every amateur really trully needed to be able to communicate in Morse code -- even if that was not his interest -- until about ten years ago, have fallen victims to advances in technology, economics, mathematics, and engineering, and the time is here to reconsider the mandatory Morse code testing requirement.

Please drop the Morse Code speed requirement to 5 WPM across all HF bands, as proposal described.

Jeffrey Streifling VA6JS

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name: Ron Boon

Callsign: VE6RWB Ron Boon

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification. Robert Edward Wadleigh

Callsign-- VE6REW

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification Name : Robin Applewhaite VE7DFI

Robin and Maureen Applewhaite

Subject: DGRB-001-01

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Gary Wessel: VA7 SBV

I support the 5 wpm for all Hame to operate with full privs on the HF bands VA7VVV/VE7DDW

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name: David E. Lake, VE7 LOT

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name: Audrey D. Lake VE7 WRN

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification. Frederick A. McLeod. VE7FBW I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Brian Mury VE7NGR

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the

5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name: James Ewen

Callsign: VE6SRV

I support the proposal to give operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 WPM Morse Code Qualification Shirley Nix VE7FME

I support the extension of privileges to radio amateurs with 5 wpm morse code rating in the frequencies below 30MHz. I am concerned that there may be no way of monitoring abuse of the power rating by the great number of new stations on these frequencies.

Jim White VE7KDN

I am writing to advise that as a Ham I support the proposal to give full operating priviledges on all High Frequency bands to holders of 5 wpm Morse code Qualification.

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification. W.R. Pattinson - VE7GC

To whom it may concern,

I support the proposal to make all ham frequencies accessible to persons who pass the 5wpm morse code test. 5 wpm is more than adequate for emergency communications, and adopting this standard would bring Canada into line with a number of other administrations which have already adopted a 5wpm standard.

I am in the process of becoming licensed, but I do not have my call sign yet. I passed the written exam, but not the 12wpm test. I am still studying to pass the 12wpm standard because I will require use of all ham frequencies.

Thanks for the opportunity to respond to this issue. Allan Edie

To: [email protected]

Subject: DGRB-001-01

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name: FRED R. MCFALL

I wish to support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Ryan Nixon VE7 TRN

I support the proposal to give Full Operating Privileges in all HF Amateur Radio Freq Bands below 30mhz to Holders of the 5 Wpm Morse Code Qualification. NAME: El Roy Wheeler(Pres. Foothills Amateur Radio Society of Alberta)

CALSIGN: VE6ERW,VE6XRP

This is VE6FW my name is Dale Kidmose .I am in favour of the purposed 5 words per min. for the full HF. privileges . Thank you , Dale Kidmose

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges, in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands, to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code qualification.

Furthermore I await the day when the use of the HF frequency bands is open to Amateurs with just the Basic Qualifications.... with one frequency exception.....to be selected by the "ancient" amateurs having the 12 wpm licence.

There are more Amateurs with only the Basic Licence than there are with 5 and 12 wpm qualification.

Why should the majority be denied access to the HF frequency bands?

Name: William M.Pender of Fort Macleod, Alberta.

Call sign: VE6WMP

Subject: DGRB-001-01

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification. Name: Al McNeil

Callsign: (If any) VE7BJA 1207-1135 Quayside Dr. New Westminster B.C>

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio Frequency Bands to holders of the 5wpm Morse Code Qualification

Name: Wallace H. Andrews

Number 1969900012

Call Sign VE5IX

To whom it may concern; I am one of the new radio amateurs directly affected by this proposal. Short of eliminating the morse code requirement completely, which I would approve, I support the change to a Morse code skill level of 5 wpm in order to access the full HF amateur spectrum.

Yours truly D J Bentley VA7DON

Subject: DGRB-001-01 I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF

Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the

5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name: Shane Bellman

Callsign: (VA7 BEL)

Dear Sir:

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Regards

Robert B. Gilliland VE5RBG

I support fully the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of 5 words per minute code. Warren D Beaule' VA5WDB

Sincerely Warren Beaule' Dear Sir:

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Regards

Colleen M. Gilliland VE5CMG

To whom it may concern: I am fully in support of the proposal to grant full operating privileges on bands vbelow 30 mhz. to Canadian amateur radio operators holding a 5WPM license. As a holder of an advanced license since 1972, I believe this move would be a great encouragement to persons interested in beconing licensed hams.

Sincerly,

Herb Essenburg - VE5HE

Hi my name is Dave Court, VE7DFP. Please accept my vote to allow full use of the HF band with the 5 word per minute code. I know this will help many new hams to join us, and give new life to those of us stuck with the 5 words. thanx 73 dave

Hi, I support the 5 wpm recommendation for all new amatuers for privilages 30 mhz & lower.

Ken Bindle/ VE5KRB

Subject: DGRB-001-01 I DO NOT support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name: D.K.EDWARDS; Callsign: VE7AKU

In general, I support the proposal to give full operating privileges on all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code

Qualification, but with a sunset clause; that it be subject to a review, say in six months, to assess how heavy the traffic load becomes.

Dolores M. Klatt

VE7DLY

Dear Sir I am replying to a request for input on Notice No. DGRB-001-01. Although I have been a holder of a Basic Amateur Radio License for just over a year, I would like to mention that the requirement of proficiency in Morse Code kept me from obtaining a license for over 40 years.

While I have no problem with maintaining Morse Code proficiency in the current band allocations, I do have a problem with the requirement of Morse Code for the rest of the band allocations below 30 mHz. There are many other modes of communication today than Morse Code. If there are voice bands below 30 mHz., why does one have to demonstrate Morse Code proficiency to operate voice on these bands?

Therefore, maintain a Morse Code proficiency requirement for those sections of the bands below 30 mHz that have been assigned Morse Code. For the rest of the bands, allow voice or other modes of operation without Morse Code proficiency.

Thanking you

Robert G. MacLachlan

Subject: DGRB-001-01 I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification. Name: Roger Clary Callsign: VE7ROG

Regarding the proposal to grant full operating priveleges to all amateurs who have a 5 WPM certificate, I wish to register my opposition. My concern has nothing to do with the fact that I have held Advanced

Amateur status since 1968, but rather with my concern as to exactly what this measure will accomplish.

As an approved Amateur Radio Volunteer examiner and amateur radio instructor, I have witnessed a dramatic decline over the past decade in interest in amateur radio by prospective new amateurs.

From personal experience it is evident that this continuing drop in intererst has been brought about by a growth in affluence and the greater availability of every manner of alternative entertainment and consumer product, particularly in the area of communications. Prime examples of this are: the Internet, cellphones, portable CD's, rental movies and a plethora of television channels I do not see how relaxing the requirements for obtaining an advanced amateur radio licence will accomplish any positive effect, even if there was to be an increase in total licensees. From my experience, one of the greatest attractions of the hobby has been the challenge to learn the technology and to foster curiosity in experimenting with electronics and communications. As a consequence, I feel that what Canada should be doing to foster greater interest in the pursuit of amateur radio as a hobby is to increase the challenge level and to better promote knowledge about the hobby to young people in schools.

Reducing the standards required to obtain an amateur radio licence is not a measure which I feel will benefit either the hobby or the country. What is needed foremost are discussions between all of the stakeholders who have knowledge about and interest in the hobby.

Yours truly,

Ronald M. Rosmer, VE6FV DO you want another 11m band mess,keep the code requirement,

VE1-MWS

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification. Leslie D. Saul, VE7GBT (advanced)

Attn: Chief Authorization Subject: Propposal #DGRB-001-01 A Proposal to Eliminate the 12 WPM requirement For Amateur Radio Operation on the HF Bands

I am writing to express my full and enthusiastic support for this proposal. It's implementation will bring us into conformity with most of the rest of the Western world. It willvastly simplify Industiry Canada's job of enforcing domestic regulations, particularly operations under the reciprocal agreement with the US. I hope that implementation will encourage new people to enter the hobby, as amateur radio has been a path for many people to make contributions in a wide range of electronics.

Maurice Koroniak VE3MPK

I Do Not support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the

5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Name: Bill Tramble

VE6 KL

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all the HF amateur radio frequency bands to the holders of the 5 wpm. morse code qualification. R.Newstead VE7DHG

"In light of the foregoing, Industry Canada proposes that Radio Information Circular 2 (RIC-2), Standards for the Operation of Radio Stations in the Amateur Radio Service be amended to remove the requirement that amateur radio operators hold the 12 w.p.m Morse code qualification to operate an amateur radio station on frequencies below 30 MHz. It is also proposed that RIC-2 be amended so that full operating privileges in all amateur bands will be granted to amateur radio operators holding the basic and 5 w.p.m. morse code qualification."

This proposal, quoted above from Notice No. DGRB-001-01 - A Proposal to Grant Full Operating Privileges in all Amateur Radio Frequency Bands Below 30 MHz to Amateur Radio Operators Holding a 5 word per minute (w.p.m.) Morse Code Qualification, has my full support. I agree with both the reasons for this change in Regulation advanced in the Notice, and advanced by the Radio Amateurs of Canada organization.

I note that with the advancement of the power of personal computers and their increase in Amateur Radio, that there has been a quantum leap in the advancement of newer modulation schemes, such as PSK 31, and MFSK 16, both of which rival Morse Code's spectrum efficiency, and which are useable with much more economy of time and effort than is morse code.

Furthermore, and as an IC Accredited Examiner, I have seen a dramatic lessening of interest in the learning of Morse Code by those studying for a Basic Licence, and a lessening of interest itself in Amateur Radio. I believe that the time has come to decrease the emphasis on morse code as a requirement for the granting of full privileges. It has been my experience that expertise in morse code, while it is part of the history of amateur Radio, is only one of a large constellation of skills and interests that define an Amateur Radio Operator.

One comment often put forth in defence of retaining a 12 w.p.m. morse code qualification is that the prospective Amateur Radio Operator will have a greater committment to the Service and will experience pride in their accomplishment. As an experienced educator, I have observed that there are many ways for a student to gain a sense of accomplishment on completion of a rigourous course of studies. With the advent of a computerized examination generating facility, should Industry Canada deem it necessary, it would be fairly simple to add questions to the Basic level exam concerning newer modes of operation. Rather than morse code facility, I have observed that most new Amateurs require a period of apprenticeship with an experienced Amateur Radio Operator, in order to actualize the theory that they have learned. They need concrete assistance in equipment acquisition, in station set up, and in basic hands-on operation.

Thank you for this proposal, and for soliciting the comments of Amateur Radio Operators.

Robert Partridge, VE3SRD

I do NOT support the proposal to give full operating priviledges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Syd Jameson VE7BOP

I do not support the proposal to grant full operating priveledges in all Ah Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Helen Jameson VE7HEJ

Re: Notice No. DGRB-001-01 — A Proposal to Grant Full Operating Privileges in all Amateur Radio Frequency Bands Below 30 MHz to Amateur Radio Operators Holding a 5 word per minute (w.p.m.) Morse Code Qualification, Publication Date:2001-01-06

I personally support the proposal in notice DGRB-001-01.

Today, we use a wide variety of modulation and information coding techniques. CW and International Morse Code are just one example of each. From the Industry Canada web pages, "amateur radio service" is defined as "radiocommunication service in which radio apparatus are used for the purpose of self-training, intercommunication or technical investigation...". The reduction of licencing requirements to the minimum required by the ITU would facilitate greater participation in all three of the stated purposes of the amateur radio service. The reduction of the Morse Code requirement to 5 WPM will make it easier for the students I work with to become licenced to conduct novel experiments of their own using the unique characteristics of the bands below 30 MHz.

If the ITU should, in the future, allow operation below 30MHz without a Morse Code requirement, then I would support Canadian regulations being further amended to drop the requirement at that time. sincerely

Duncan Elliott, Assistant Professor

Dear Sirs:I have been licensed for a few years and have advanced qualifications. I think the proposal to go to 5wpm for all qualifications on hf is ok bt there should be more of a written test so these people could better understand all the facets of ham radio ie:Repeaters,care and operation of same,antennas and feedlines,etc.I dont think the basic qualifications are enough for all the other things involved.Just my opinion,fior what its worth.Tnx es 73,Ned Carroll,ve5ned

The Chief, Authorization, Industry Canada

A submission from Bob Vernall ZL2CA in response to:

Canada Gazette notice No. DGRB-001-01 of 6 January 2001 titled A Proposal to Grant Full Operating Privileges in all Amateur Radio Frequency Bands Below 30 MHz to Amateur Radio Operators Holding a 5 word per minute (w.p.m.) Morse Code Qualification

Noting the superficial scope

This submission supports the proposal, which effectively drops the 12 wpm Morse test and has 5 wpm as the only Morse test element in qualifications for an amateur licence for access to frequencies below 30 MHz.

However, the proposal appears to have no recognition of the wider situation, that Morse testing is no longer a genuine qualification requirement and can more correctly be identified as being a restrictive practice. Moving to a single 5 wpm Morse test is basically an expedient interim situation pending removal of the very questionable international radio regulation S25.5 at WRC-2003. Removal of S25.5 means removal of ITU treaty obligations by member administrations to include Morse testing in national regulations. Notice No. DGRB-001-01 is silent on these matters and is therefore appears to be superficial in dealing with the true needs of amateur radio rule making over the next few years.

Issues with the text of Notice No. DGRB-001-01

The DGRB-001-01 excerpt "ITU regulations require that all amateur radio operators be familiar with the International Morse code in order to use frequencies below 30 MHz." is a sentence with rather loose meaning and is unhelpful in dispelling some of the myths about a Morse requirement. For reference purposes, the text of S25.5 is: Any person seeking a licence to operate the apparatus of an amateur station shall prove that he is able to send correctly by hand and to receive correctly by ear texts in Morse code signals. The administrations concerned, may, however, waive this requirement in the case of stations making use exclusively of frequencies above 30 MHz.

The requirement is that proficiency in Morse code needs to be proven before any licence or operation is authorized. The former version of S25.5 had waiver limit frequency of 144 MHz, and earlier again it was 1000 MHz. This formulation and history is consistent with a restrictive practice masquerading as a regulation, to unfairly limit the number of participants and has nothing whatever to do with radio physics or the ability to effectively use any frequency in any band. Once qualified, a person may choose to never use Morse code, or to not establish any transmitting apparatus, so to make it quite clear, the Morse requirement is associated with qualifications (and a restrictive practice) rather than on-air operations. For DGRB-001-01 to have text claiming that any operator needs to be familiar with the International Morse code in order to use frequencies below 30 MHz is simply an absurd statement to include in a regulatory discussion paper.

The DGRB-001-01 excerpt quoting the RAC input "It is evident that a majority of Canadian Amateurs are supportive of dropping the 12 W.P.M. test" is not the full picture as it does not indicate the wider issue about dropping Morse testing altogether. In any case, this needs to be a matter for development of fair public policy, and confining the discussion references to views of amateur operators has the possibility of an indicated result that actually reflects self-interest rather than public interest.

The DGRB-001-01 excerpt "A decision by Canada to reduce the 12 w.p.m. Morse code qualification would be consistent with what is happening in other parts of the world and would therefore simplify the process of implementing reciprocal operating agreements for Canadian amateurs with other administrations" completely overlooks the more important scenario that, following WRC-2003, there is very likely to be a new regime for licensing and reciprocal operating agreements. In future (post WRC- 2003) the international norm will very likely be full privileges and fully recognized reciprocity with qualifications having zero Morse code element. It is questionable whether an administration should invest time on international liaison for what is an internationally interim situation, when a far more realistic basis for an "international radio permit" is only a few years away.

International developments

I am pleased to be a New Zealander and know that the administration of New Zealand made a proposal to WRC-95 to suppress S25.5. That directly addresses the core objection. Since the subject was aired internationally in 1995 many administrations have agreed that Morse testing is a questionable and anachronistic requirement, for which the appropriate international solution is suppression of S25.5.

The International Amateur Radio Union (IARU) has generally been a follower with suggestions to get rid of Morse testing, probably because of self-interest of their members to try and keep others out. Despite some questionable goings on with the administration of the IARU, there are clear expressions of emerging views from regional conferences. The most recent IARU conference was for Region 3, held in Darwin in September 2000, and conference agreed on the following recommendation:

1. We recommend to this conference that IARU Region 3 urges member societies to seek, as an interim measure, the reduction of all Morse code testing speeds to five words per minute.

2.a) We recommend to the Conference that, setting aside any previous relevant decisions of earlier Conferences, a policy of the removal of Morse code testing as an ITU requirement for an amateur license to operate on frequencies below 30 MHz be adopted.

2b) Further, we recommend that the Administrative Council adopt the above position as IARU policy.

Note that the text of the recommendation reflects that going to 5 wpm testing is seen as an interim measure, and removal of Morse testing as an international requirement is the main objective of that recommendation. In any case, the IARU is not a member administration of the ITU and decisions will be made at WRC-2003 even if the IARU continues to be in catch-up mode (for information, the IARU Administrative Council did not accept the above IARU Region 3 Conference recommendation).

Preparations for WRC-2003 and consequential recommended actions for Industry Canada Review of Article S25 is an approved agenda item for WRC-2003, and suppression of S25.5 is likely to be supported by many administrations.

The Administration of Canada also has treaty obligations to United Nations agreements on human rights, including elimination of discrimination. Canada should develop a consistent overall stance, and in the context of DGRB-001-01 and consequential developments, the amateur radio qualification requirements should not contain any elements that have no good reason.

It is timely for the administration of Canada to consider input for review of Article S25.

In the likely event that S25.5 is suppressed as part of the review of Article S25, then Canada could have new national regulations with zero Morse code test element ready to introduce once the Final Acts of WRC-2003 came in to force. In order to promptly pass on the benefits to the Canadian public of a review of Article S25, it is highly recommended that scoping studies be carried out in the near future to work out possible paths for a smooth transition from old to new rules.

The language of DGRB-001-01 is alleged to reflect a passive conservative approach. Instead Canada could be a leader in genuine modernization of amateur radio rule making, which would be of benefit to both the amateur service and the Canadian public.

Submitted by Bob Vernall ZL2CA

As an amateur radio operator with full privileges in all bands I fell this change will improve the services that the amateur community can provide

Notice No. DGRB-001-01 —— A Proposal to Grant Full Operating Privileges in all Amateur Radio Frequency Bands Below 30 MHz to Amateur Radio Operators Holding a 5 word per minute (w.p.m.) Morse Code Qualification

73 Glen VE4GWN

I suspect it may too late to comment on this proposal however I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification in Canada.

Thanks es 73, John D. Erskine VA7JD

I support the decision to give full privileges on all amateur frequencies to those amateurs who have attained their 5 wpm CW. ===== Debbie Swaitkewich VE7TKE

March 3, 2001 Dear Sir or madam; At the February meeting if the Loyalist City Amateur radio Club, at which 26 members were present, a discussion was held regarding the proposed change to allow amateurs holding 5 wpm code speed to have full band privileges as was published by Canada Gazette, #DGRB-001-01, dated Jan 6, 2001. Following that discussion, a vote was conducted and the result of that vote was 25 to 1 in favor of the proposed change. Many of those present held Advanced amateur licenses and the one opposition was from an Advanced amateur. The general consensus was that CW should be phased out as a requirement, that if amateurs want to use CW, it should be their choice and that we should move on with technology. Yours Sincerely Len Morgan, President LCARC

The following submission is made with respect to the following:

Amendments to the Technical Requirements set out in the Radiocommunication Information Circular 2 (RIC- 2), “Standards for the Operation of Radio Stations in the Amateur Radio Service”

Notice No. DGRB-001-01 — A Proposal to Grant Full Operating Privileges in all Amateur Radio Frequency Bands Below 30 MHz to Amateur Radio Operators Holding a 5 word per minute (w.p.m.) Morse Code Qualification which was dated 2001-01-06.

***************************************************************** The essence of my submission is that there is no realistic justification for a 5 wpm Morse Code requirement at all. If the Morse Code requirement is reduced to 5 wpm it might better be eliminated entirely.

The reason for my statement is very simple; Morse Code at 5 wpm is so agonizingly slow that it is useless for any practical communication. I have never known or heard of any practical communication carried on in Morse Code at such a slow speed.

In days past, a very real justification for a 5 wpm requirement was that it was a stepping stone to a higher speed at which practical communication could take place. With 5 wpm as an only and terminal license requirement, there can be no realistic justification for its existence.

As a matter of fact, contacts heard on the Amateur bands at a speed of less than 10 wpm are rare and at speeds near 5 wpm almost nonexistent. The lowest CW speeds are heard in the US 80 and 40 metre Novice bands. About four years ago I made a series of accurate but random measurements in those Novice bands, 50 measurements in each of the two bands. The average sending speed of the 50 measurements on 80 metres was 13.1 wpm with 4.7 and 26.7 wpm being the lowest and highest speeds I measured. The average sending speed of the 50 measurements on 40 metres was 10.1 wpm with 4.8 and 16.4 wpm being the lowest and highest speeds I measured. I might add that one can rarely carry out actual on-the-air contacts at the same speed at which one passes a test; an actual working speed is almost always slower until practice results in an increase in speed. I have often heard 5 wpm liscencees complain that everything they actually hear on the air is too fast for them to copy. I’m sure it is.

In an Addendum, I’ve provided further details about my measurements of on-the-air CW speed.

As a further point, those who pass a 5 wpm Morse test only for the purpose of gaining voice privileges on the HF bands will rarely ever again use Morse Code after they have passed the test. The Morse requirement is only a useless impediment for them which is widely resented.

The claim is often made that Canada, along with other countries, must have a Morse Code requirement is order to fulfill an ITU requirement. May I point out that Canada will suffer no consequence if it fails to live up to that requirement. Furthermore, Canada does ignore international requirements, and even law, as it sees fit. Canada violated international law during the so-called Turbot war. As another example, all of the call signs used by the core CBC stations in Canada, CBL, CBM, CBW, CBE, etc, do not come from the blocks assigned to Canada. Moreover, there can be no doubt that the 5 wpm requirement will be abolished at the next international conference which considers it. If it really seems necessary to follow the current international requirement, why not reduce the speed requirement to one wpm. Since five wpm is really useless it might as well be one wpm which is only a little more useless, and which almost anyone could pass.

I do have a practical recommendation which will justify the continuation of Morse Code tests without being an impediment to those who wish only to operate voice on the HF bands. I recommend that a Canadian Amateur be required to pass a Morse Code test of at least 10 wpm in order to gain access to the bottom 25 kHz of the primary HF bands. These are the same band segments that are limited to US Amateurs with Extra Class licenses and for which they had to pass a 20 wpm Morse test up until recently. That would have no effect on those who wish to use voice communication because SSB is only very rarely heard on those sub-bands. As far as I know, only Canadians are presently allowed to use voice on those essentially CW frequencies, a luxury that very few have exercised and, I believe, wisely so.

I think that a useful CW speed requirement (at least 10 wpm) has served the Amateur Radio community well for decades and could continue to do so in the future. But I recognize that pressure has been building for decades to make things easier, both technically and with respect to Morse Code requirements. I further recognize the growing political imperitive to give people what whey want. Given those facts, the elimination of the useful 10 wpm requirement cannot be stopped. Also given that 5 wpm Morse Code can now serve no useful purpose, it might better also be eliminated as a requirement for voice communication on the HF bands.

Robert E Heath, VA3BZ Addendum About 4 years ago, I was talking to a recently licensed Radio Amateur who claimed that the 5 wpm test was a good idea because it allowed newcomers to get on the air and get practice to improve their speed. I replied that the idea was good in theory but that in practice almost no communication took place in the US novice bands (the logical place to expect it) at such slow speeds. My statement, however, was only a gut feeling which had resulted from a lot of listening; I had no hard facts to back it up. I therefore carefully measured the sending speeds actually being used in both the US 40 metre and 80 metre Novice bands. I selected 50 random signals on both 80 and 40 metres over a period of about two months. The average sending speed of the 50 measurements on 80 metres was 13.1 wpm with 4.7 and 26.7 wpm being the lowest and highest speeds I measured. The average sending speed of the 50 measurements on 40 metres was 10.1 wpm with 4.8 and 16.4 wpm being the lowest and highest speeds I measured. I might add that one can never carry out actual on-the-air contacts at the same speed at which one passes a test; an actual working speed is always slower until practice results in an increase in speed. I have often heard 5 wpm liscencees complain that everything they actually hear on the air is too fast for them to copy. I’m sure it is.

In my speed measurements, I used the same rules cited for word count used for Canadian Amateur Radio tests. During real life on-the-air sending, operators make mistakes and (sometimes) correct them. If corrections were made, I did not count the characters that were corrected. Errors not corrected were counted as though correct. Pauses in sending meant that fewer characters were sent during the measuring period. Because of both of these factors, the overall average sending speeds were therefore somewhat higher than my measurement figures. Hence, the code sent would be even more difficult for 5 wpm licensees to copy.

I still have all the detailed data available and can describe how I was able to make such accurate measurements. I won’t do so unless asked. I have a Canadian Commercial Radio Operator’s license issued in 1948 when one was required to copy 20 wpm for 5 minutes without an error. I can currently copy Morse Code at speeds greater than I can write, well over 30 wpm. REH

I support the proposal to give full operating privileges in all HF Amateur Radio frequency bands to holders of the 5 wpm Morse Code Qualification.

Raymond A Rosler VE5RAE

Attention: The Chief, Authorization, Industry Canada

From: Dave Walker ZL2BHE

RE: A response to Canada Gazette notice No. DGRB-001-01 of 6 January 2001 entitled “A Proposal to Grant Full Operating Privileges in all Amateur Radio Frequency Bands Below 30 MHz to Amateur Radio Operators Holding a 5 word per minute (w.p.m.) Morse Code Qualification”

Synopsis: This submission supports the Proposal outlined in DGRB-001-01 to the extent it reflects a transitional step toward the eventual elimination of Morse code as a mandatory requirement for full-privilege access to all amateur radio bands. However, it appears that the DGRB-001-01 proposal does not take into account the inevitable removal of the Morse code requirement from ITU treaty obligations. It is likely that revision of Article S25 will occur in 2003, the outcome being the removal of S25.5. As a result, Morse code will no longer be a mandatory requirement for Amateur operation on frequencies below 30MHz.

This submission suggests that the DGRB-001-01 proposal recognises the pending changes in the international regulatory environment by creating a modern regulatory framework that is flexible and adaptable to changes in the international regulatory environment. The DGRB-001-01 proposal could therefore conceivably be flexible enough to allow for the introduction of a “Zero Morse” qualification immediately upon the signing of the Final Acts of WRC- 2003.

Background Currently, amateur radio operators accessing frequencies below 30Mhz are required to demonstrate proficiency in receiving and sending Morse code. This requirement is an international one, stipulated by international law (ITU Regulation S25.5). Administrations therefore have to ensure that their sovereign law complies with this international legal requirement.

It should be noted that the Morse code requirement is merely a legal artifice. The frequency below which Morse code proficiency is required to be shown before operation is authorised is arbitrary, having being progressively lowered over the years, from 1000MHz to 144MHz to the current 30MHz. In the historical context, it is apparent the setting of the frequency below which Morse code is required seems to have involved political factors rather than the laws of physics. The artificial nature of the requirement is further demonstrated by the fact that all other radio services have removed Morse code as an operational requirement. The amateur service is now the only service with a Morse code prerequisite for full operator privileges. This situation is set to change at WRC 2003, the matter being placed on the agenda by the WRC 2000 conference. S25 is up for revision, with many administrations likely to support the removal of S25.5. The IARU also supports the review after consultation with its 180 member countries over the past 4 years.

The mandatory Morse requirement fiction perpetrated by ITU Regulation S25 is apparent by the progressive reduction by many administrations of the Morse code speed required for full privileges. In the absence of a minimum speed stipulated in the ITU regulations, and in the face of imminent change, administrations in Europe, the USA, Australia, and around the world have indulged in a frenzy of regulatory change, dropping the 12 wpm test in favour of a 5 wpm test. Canada is the latest administration to join this particular international bandwagon.

Recommendation. The recent IARU Region 3 conference, held in Darwin in September 2000, reached the following recommendation:

1. We recommend to this conference that IARU Region 3 urges member societies to seek, as an interim measure, the reduction of all Morse code testing speeds to five words per minute.

2 a) We recommend to the Conference that, setting aside any previous relevant decisions of earlier Conferences, a policy of the removal of Morse code testing as an ITU requirement for an amateur license to operate on frequencies below 30 MHz be adopted.

2. b) Further, we recommend that the Administrative Council adopt the above position as IARU policy. It is clear from the above recommendation that the 5 wpm is envisaged as an interim measure only. The broad support for the removal of the mandatory Morse code requirement suggests that the DGRB-001-01 proposal should encompass this likelihood. Canada would therefore be in a position to effect a quick but smooth transition to an environment where Morse code is no longer required. This is a chance for Canada to be a leader in the modernisation of the rules governing the amateur radio service. The rules are going to change soon, but the proposal outlined in DGRB-001-01 does not reflect this because it only implements the first step of the change process.

A rapidly shifting international regulatory environment means that prescriptive regulations will quickly become outdated and irrelevant. Areas which are of low priority on the political screen can languish in the wake of change as they wait for the executive to authorise required amendments. The solution to this problem is to construct a domestic regulatory framework that is efficient in its response to change. Such a framework could be constructed with respect to amateur radio rule making, with the service being subject to a general set of principles.

I suggest that relevant considerations for amateur radio rule making are that it should: · be technically correct · be legally correct · avoid arbitrary factors in deciding privileges · satisfy human rights issues (eliminate of discrimination) · satisfy the public interest.

The new rules should account for the imminent removal of the mandatory Morse code requirement and be flexible enough to avoid revisiting once the ITU regulations are changed. If such an approach were to be reflected in the DGRB-001-01 proposal, then it would place the Canadian administration in the vanguard of amateur radio rulemaking, thereby benefiting both the amateur radio service and the Canadian public.

Submitted by Dave Walker ZL2BHE

Subject: Canada Gazette Notice DGRB-001-01, 2001-01-06: Proposal to Grant Full Operating Privileges in all Amateur Radio Frequency Bands Below 30 MHz to Amateur Radio Operators Holding a 5 word per minute (w.p.m.) Morse Code Qualification

Dear Mr. Skora: The Mobile and personal Communications Committee of the Radio Advisory Board of Canada welcomes the opportunity to comment to Industry Canada on Canada Gazette Notice DGRB-001-01 published in the Canada Gazette Part I, dated 2001-01-06.

The RABC/M&PCC supports Industry Canada’s Proposal to grant full operating privileges in all amateur radio bands below 30 MHz to amateur radio operators holding a 5 word per minute (5 w.p.m.) Morse code qualification. The RABC/M&PCC commends Industry Canada for its foresight in developing this Proposal in support of the needs and development of the Canadian amateur radio community in harmony with advances in amateur radio globally. While this regulatory Proposal affects only the Amateur Radio Service and has no direct effect on other sectors, the RABC/M&PCC endorses initiatives that promote an interest in radio technology and communications systems. In an era of rapidly expanding wireless communications, Canada urgently needs engineers and technicians versed in radio frequency engineering.

The RABC/M&PCC sees this Proposal as a progressive and logical extension of the increased operating privileges granted under DGRB-005-99. The Proposal is in harmony with the initiatives by other administrations to decrease Mode code proficiency requirements in recognition of the declining use internationally of Morse in the maritime, military and commercial sectors. The RABC/M&PCC considers the Proposal to be important for the growth and stability of the Amateur Radio Service and one which would continue to foster the development of both technical and operating skills with potential benefit to Canada.

The RABC/M&PCC understands that this Proposal can be readily implemented and will not pose any additional ongoing administrative burden to Industry Canada but simply will require a one-time amendment to Radio Information Circular RIC - 2.

The RABC/M&PCC recommends that the Proposal be adopted as presented.

Yours truly E.R. (Ted) Campbell General Manager For Bob Simmonds Chair of the Mobile and Personal Communications Committee

March 7, 2001 Chief, Authorization,

Spectrum Management Operations Directorate,

Room 1588D, 300 Slater Street,

Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 0C8. re Notice No. DGRB-001-01 —— A Proposal to Grant Full Operating Privileges in all Amateur Radio Frequency Bands Below 30 MHz to Amateur Radio Operators Holding a 5 word per minute (w.p.m.) Morse Code Qualification.

Publication Date: 2001-01-06

I 'm sorry I thought this email had gone previously but got hung up at my ISP. Please consider these comments in regards the above.

I am an amateur radio operator VA3BDR. I have been licensed for some 6 years. I am very interested in amateur radio. I teach the basic course at our North Bay Amateur Radio Club and am active in ARES activity as well as other club activities. I have not been able to successfully pass the 12 w.p.m. Morse code. I feel as a member of the amateur radio club executive, teaching the radio course and ARES activity, I am missing the part I would like the best - being able to operate on the HF band.

I am completely and whole behind the proposed changes.

Bruce Roberts VA3BDR

It is past the 60 day cut off for the comments on DGRB-001-01. Why are they not posted on the Gazette for public viewing? Thank you VA7GS GORD Re: Amendments to the Technical Requirements set out in the Radiocommunication Information Circular 2 (RIC-2), "Standards for the Operation of Radio Stations in the Amateur Radio Service"

Notice No. DGRB-001-01 - A Proposal to Grant Full Operating Privileges in all Amateur Radio Frequency Bands Below 30 MHz to Amateur Radio Operators Holding a 5 word per minute (w.p.m.) Morse Code Qualification

I wish to state my support for the above proposal. This will bring Canada in line with other countries proposing the same legislation and more fully enrich the operating expierences of Canadian amateur radio operators.

Herschell Sax, VE3JBU RAC Charter Life Member