Federal Court Denies BCE Inc.'s Stay Request, Allows Independent Firms to Use Fiber Network for Internet Service
The Federal Court of Appeal has denied BCE Inc.'s request for a halt on a regulatory ruling allowing independent firms to offer internet services through its fibre network in Ontario and Quebec.
This decision follows Bell Canada's announcement of 4,800 job cuts and potential network spending reductions, partly in response to the CRTC's directive.
While the court permitted Bell's appeal of the CRTC's interim ruling, it rejected the company's bid to halt the decision pending the court's verdict, citing a lack of demonstrated risk of irreparable harm.
In November, the CRTC aimed to foster competition in internet services, suggesting the possibility of making its directive permanent and extending it to other provinces. The regulator initiated a five-day hearing this week to further examine the matter.
Bell has criticized the CRTC for perceived biases in its review process, arguing that the current direction undermines its incentive to expand its fiber network.
In response, Bell has slashed its network investment plans by $1.1 billion by 2025, including a minimum reduction of $500 million this year. The company warns of additional cost cuts if it believes it needs to preempt unfavorable regulatory decisions.
Comments
Post a Comment