I'm very sorry, Mr. Lemire, and I apologize to the translators.
The merger, we need to recognize, is not the only option. Rogers and Shaw could build on existing network-sharing agreements like Rogers does with Quebecor in Ontario and Quebec, and as Bell and Telus do nation-wide, or they could strike deals to share fibre and radio access networks.
We also have to wonder about Rogers' debt equity load, which is twice that of Shaw and will soar further if this deal is approved in light of the upcoming 3,500-megahertz spectrum auction, and when it renews the Hockey Night in Canada rights in 2026.
How can Rogers and Shaw verify their commitments? How can they be tracked and verified?
While Rogers and Shaw anticipate deploying 5G and other wireless networks to meet their pledges, most communities want fibre, not wireless connections. Regardless, those communities that are trying to build their own networks across the country are facing endless obstructionist tactics from incumbents, rather than willing and reliable partners.
Canada’s lucrative $29.2-billion mobile wireless market is not a small market. In fact it's the eighth-largest mobile wireless market in the world.
I'll pass it over to Ben.