Rogers, Shaw say Competition Bureau to oppose deal
BNN Bloomberg
The Competition Bureau notified Rogers Communications and Shaw that it intends to file applications to oppose their merger, the companies said in a statement.
Canada’s Competition Bureau notified Rogers Communications Inc. and Shaw Communications Inc. that it intends to file applications to oppose their merger, the companies said in a statement.
Rogers and Shaw said they will oppose the competition agency’s application to prevent the deal while engaging with it to find a resolution. They will also still continue to seek approval from the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Economic Development.
“Rogers and Shaw remain committed to the transaction, which is in the best interests of Canada and Canadians because of the significant long-term benefits it will bring for consumers, businesses and the economy,” they said.
The companies said they have offered to address concerns regarding the impact of their merger on Canada’s wireless market, including the sale of Shaw’s Freedom Mobile business. The Globe and Mail earlier reported that Rogers presented Canada’s government a deal for Xplornet Communications Inc. to buy Freedom Mobile in April as part of the effort to get approval for the Shaw merger.
