Hearings Begin on Rogers’ Proposed $26 Billion Acquisition of Shaw

Competition court hearings on Rogers Communications Inc.’s proposed $26 billion acquisition of Shaw Communications Inc. begin today as the telecommunications company looks to make a deal across the line.

The hearing is aimed at resolving a deadlock between the competition committee and Rodgers and Shaw, and comes after weeks of talks and a brief mediation period reached a deadlock in late October.

The Competition Bureau is one of three regulatory bodies that require approval before a transaction can take place, in addition to CRTC and Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada.

Last week, the competition watchdog stepped up its intentions to block the deal altogether.

The company plans to sell Shaw-owned wireless carrier Freedom Mobile to Quebecor Inc.’s Videotron Ltd. to allay concerns that the merger will lead to lower service and higher prices for consumers. It reiterated its position that it was inadequate.

Hearings are expected to last four weeks, with oral argument scheduled for mid-December.

Chief Justice Paul Crampton will lead a competition court panel at the hearing.

Rogers hopes to complete the deal with Shaw before the end of the year, which could be further extended until January 31, 2023.