Quebecor Expresses Disappointment Over CRTC Decision on MVNO Access Rates

Quebecor recently voiced their disappointment in response to a CRTC arbitration decision regarding the access rates they are required to pay to Telus under the Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) regime. Pierre Karl Péladeau, President and Chief Executive Officer of Quebecor, expressed his surprise at the decision, stating that it restricts Canadians’ choices for innovative wireless plans at competitive prices.

Key Points Highlighted by Quebecor:

– The MVNO rates set by the CRTC do not align with current industry realities.
– Canada’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) dropped significantly, thanks to efforts from Videotron, Fizz, and Freedom Mobile.
– The decision may impact Quebecor’s expansion plans and pricing strategies.
– Quebecor has suspended data-rich plans in Manitoba due to increased costs from the CRTC decision.

Péladeau emphasized that the government’s goal of providing Canadians with affordable wireless services is hindered by this decision. He pointed out that Quebecor’s operations may become unprofitable, leading to potential reconsideration of pricing and expansion in certain regions of Canada. As a result, the launch of data-rich plans in Manitoba has been put on hold.

In conclusion, Péladeau expressed concerns about creating disparities among Canadians based on network coverage availability. He stated that those in areas covered by Freedom’s network will benefit from healthy competition, while others may miss out on the advantages of having Quebecor as Canada’s fourth mobile carrier.

Quebecor remains committed to providing quality services to Canadians but acknowledges the challenges posed by regulatory decisions like this one. Stay tuned for updates on how Quebecor navigates these changes and continues to serve customers across Canada.