The Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union of Canada has let the CRTC know of its displeasure with the upcoming deal by BCE Inc. (Bell Canada’s parent company) to buy Astral Media, according to this CBC article. The deal has already led to protests by Bell competitor Telus Corp., for the same reason: both argue that it would give Bell an unreasonable market share in Canada.
From the union’s perspective, however, the issue is not so much one of competition but one of jobs. According to the article, the CEP is concerned that if Bell corners the market, this would lead to fewer employment opportunities. If the deal does end up going through, the union wants the CRTC to compel Bell to provide more local content, the CBC reports.
