Rogers Communications Inc. and Shaw Communications Inc. say talks with the Competition Bureau this week have failed to resolve the regulator's objections to their proposed merger.

The companies met with the competition watchdog on Monday and Tuesday as part of a mediation process.

The regulator has been trying to block the merger, arguing that it would result in less choice for Canadians and lead to higher bills for consumers.

Rogers and Shaw say the review process of their deal will continue as previously disclosed, adding that they are open to continuing talks with the regulator at any time.

The companies say they intend to continue to work to highlight the benefits of their merger, including the proposed sale of Freedom Wireless to Quebecor Inc.

The Rogers-Shaw transaction already has approval from shareholders and the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission, but remains subject to review by the Competition Bureau and the Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development.

Rogers and Shaw agree to injunction that temporarily blocks their merger closing

The Competition Bureau says Rogers Communications Inc. and Shaw Communications Inc. have agreed to a preliminary injunction that prevents them from closing their proposed $26-billion merger until the Competition Tribunal hears a challenge from the commissioner.

Close-up of a hand holding two cellphones that clearly display the Rogers and Shaw Communications names and logos. 

A woman holds two cellphones in this photo illustration March 29, 2021 in Chelsea, Que. The House of Commons Standing Committee on Industry, Science and Technology is hearing from Rogers and Shaw Communications executives on a merger.

Rogers Shaw merger hearing

Rogers is trying to buy Shaw in a $26-billion merger that would make Canada's telecom sector even more top-heavy. 

Rogers Communications says it will sell Freedom Mobile to Quebecor for $2.85B

Quebecor Inc. has agreed with Rogers Communications Inc. and Shaw Communications Inc. to buy Freedom Mobile for an enterprise value of $2.85 billion, the companies said on Friday.

The logos of Rogers Communications and Shaw Communications appear on a cellphone screen. 

Rogers and Shaw applications are pictured on a cellphone in Ottawa on Monday, May 9, 2022. The Competition Bureau says is seeking to block Rogers Communications Inc.'s proposed $26-billion acquisition of Shaw Communications Inc.

Rogers Shaw 20220509

Rogers and Shaw applications are pictured on a cellphone in Ottawa in May. The two companies announced they are selling Freedom Mobile to Videotron, a unit of Quebecor Inc., in the hopes of getting their merger deal approved.

Rogers and Shaw are trying to get approval for their multi-billion dollar telecom merger.

Rogers and Shaw say merger talks with Competition Bureau are going nowhere

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