Pending the hearing at the Competition Tribunal, Roger and Shaw have agreed to put their merger on hold, as it is being challenged by the Competition Bureau.
As part of this agreement, Rogers will not enforce any of the terms of the merger agreements so as not to limit Shaw’s ability to “operate, maintain, improve or develop its wireless business.”
The companies also agreed to an expedited hearing before the Tribunal. “The commissioner has called for an expedited process given the continuing harm he says is already happening in the marketplace. The accelerated schedule will be established by the Tribunal with the contribution of the commissioner and the parties.
Although the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) has given the green light to the proposed acquisition of Shaw by Rogers, the Board of the Commission believes that such a merger could contribute to higher prices. , a reduced quality of service and a loss of choice for consumers.
“Strong competition is essential for Canadians to have access to affordable, high-quality wireless services,” said Competition Commissioner Matthew Boswell. I am pleased that this case can now move quickly towards a hearing before the Tribunal. Our goal remains to protect Canadians by preserving competition and choice in Canada’s wireless market.
