OTTAWA — The CRTC today finally named and fined three telemarketers thousands of dollars for knowingly violating the National Do-Not-Call list.

It is the first time that any individual or company has been found guilty of contravening the almost year-old rule, which was designed to protect consumers who have registered with the free service.

Until now, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission has conducted its investigations into alleged violations in secret, refusing to even name the companies.

The CRTC announced this morning it had found that the three telemarketers had violated the National Do Not Call List (DNCL) Rules, despite being warned to change their ways, and were assessed fines:

• $4,000 fine to Rob Sugar, who runs a Toronto weight loss clinic

• $10,000 fine to Toronto-based Roofing by Peerless Mason Ltd.

• an additional $10,000 fine to Waterproofing by Peerless Mason Inc.

"The telemarketers were given opportunities to come into compliance with the National DNCL Rules, but failed to change their business practices," according a statement released by the CRTC.

The Toronto Star revealed last week that three CRTC commissioners were going to hold a private teleconference to discuss allegations that three telemarketers kept calling people who had registered with the national do-not-call lists.

The commission is investigating complaints against as many as 700 telemarketers.

In July, the three telemarketers were each issued with notices of violation and given 30 days to either pay the fine or to contest it before a CRTC panel.

If the telemarketers don't pay the fines within 30 days, interest will begin accruing and the CRTC will register the debt with the Federal Court in order to collect the amounts owing, according to the CRTC.

The National Do-Not-Call List is a free service for consumers that allows them to reduce the number of unwanted telemarketing calls and faxes they receive. To date, over 7 million numbers have been registered.