The CRTC has approved the Local Service Rate Increase for consumers in High Cost Service Areas; regions outside of Saskatchewan's nine largest centres. According to SaskTel the rate increase is a mandated decision by the CRTC to have High Cost Serving Areas see an in increase of $30 per month across the nation by June 1, 2013. Rates will vary for each customer from $.07 to $2.03 per month depending on their current rate and will be effective February 1, 2012; with the increase noted on actual service bills as of May 1. The increase will affect 144 000 customers.

The second and third rate increases will take effect June 1, 2012 and June 1, 2013. With rates increased annually according to inflation starting June 1, 2014.

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