Canadians Cannot Afford Rogers Acquisition of Shaw Communications

Higher cell phone prices inevitable conclusion to elimination of fourth wireless provider

March 15, 2021 — This morning Rogers Communications announced its plans to buy competitor Shaw Communications, for $20B. The deal threatens to eliminate choice and affordability in Canada’s cell phone market entirely. 

“This deal cannot be approved. Canadians already suffer from sky-high Internet prices. We need more competition in Canada – not less. Over the years, we've seen competitor after competitor swallowed up by the Big 3. The result is always the same – more profits for the Big 3, worse plans and less choice for Canadians. We can’t afford this deal. This is going to be a true test of Minister Champagne’s commitment to affordability, connectivity, and Canadians,” said OpenMedia Executive Director Laura Tribe.

The acquisition announcement comes just one day before a national Affordable Internet Day of Action, calling for an end to Canada’s already sky-high Internet prices. The Day of Action will feature a live online event from 1:00 - 4:40 pm EDT, and will provide numerous ways for concerned members of the public to take action and demand change. 

Agenda and details for the Day of Action can be found at affordable-internet.ca.

About OpenMedia

OpenMedia works to keep the Internet open, affordable, and surveillance-free. We create community-driven campaigns to engage, educate, and empower people to safeguard the Internet.

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Contact

Laura Tribe
Executive Director, OpenMedia
1 (888) 441-2640 ext. 2
[email protected]