The RAC Report

Annual Simulated Emergency Test (SET)
October 2 to 3, 1999
by Pierre Mainville, VA3PM@rac.ca 

The RAC Field Organization is inviting all Radio Amateurs to participate in a Simulated Emergency Test (SET). We feel it is very important to demonstrate the cohesion between Amateur Radio Emergency Services (ARES) groups and National Traffic System (NTS), as well as to demonstrate to served agencies and the public what services can be provided under simulated emergency conditions.

The main weekend for the 1999 SET is Oct 2-3, but ARES teams or nets may conduct their exercises anytime between September 1 and November 30. Consult with your Section Emergency Coordinator before settling on a date as a SET works best if there is active participation in a number of areas throughout a Section, and involving more than one local net, if possible.

Whether you are part of a new or experienced ARES group, the SET is a great opportunity to learn or practice useful skills in traffic handling, net operation and emergency communication management. For more information and guidelines check the RAC Web page at http://www.rac.ca/set1998.htm

 KWARC members contact Robert VE3ZLV for info on KWARC involvment

Industry Canada has released its revised proposal to streamline the authorization process for the Amateur Radio Service.

In short Industry Canada proposes:

• to make the Amateur Radio Operator Certificate the sole authorization document
• eliminate the radio licence thereby eliminating the licence issuance fee, the short term fee and the $24 annual renewal fee
• to modify the operator certificate to include the operator's assigned call sign
• to charge a fee($60)for user initiated transactions

The complete documentation can be found on the Industry Canada web site: http://strategis.ic.gc.ca/SSG/sf01709e.html