Two consumer advocacy groups have filed a petition asking the federal government’s cabinet to
“set aside” the decision by Canada’s broadcast regulator to approve the takeover of Shaw
Communications (SJR) by Rogers Communications (RCI).
The Public Interest Advocacy Centre (PIAC) and the National Pensioners Federation argue that
the decision by the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC)
will lead to “significant price increases” for television services in Canada.
The CRTC approved Rogers' $26-billion takeover of Shaw in March. But PIAC says the CRTC
failed to impose enforceable conditions to protect consumer affordability of TV services.
The groups have raised concerns about potential price increases for Shaw customers who
subscribe only to cable or satellite television and note that seniors are especially concerned
about higher costs.
The petition comes as Rogers and Shaw await regulatory approval from the Competition Bureau
and Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED).
