Rogers Communications and Shaw Communications Inc. pushed back the deadline to close their merger again, to Feb. 17, after a Canadian government minister said he needs more time to decide if he will approve the deal.
The deal, which will create Canada’s No. 2 telecoms operator, needs minister Francois-Philippe Champagne’s approval for the transfer of spectrum licenses held by Shaw’s Freedom Mobile unit to Quebecor’s Videotron.
Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, which Champagne heads, did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Reuters.
Related: Canadian Judge Question Watchdog Argument To Block Rogers-Shaw Deal
The C$2.85 billion sale of Freedom Mobile has been key in resolving antitrust concerns around the Rogers-Shaw merger. The sale is also expected to close by Feb. 17, the companies said on Monday.
Champagne had previously expressed support for the transaction if certain conditions were met.
