One of Canada’s largest media companies is now Quebec’s largest cable operator, following a CRTC decision this week to approve Quebecor Media Inc’s purchase of the cable assets of Vidéotron Ltée – Decision 2001-282. The decision wasn’t unexpected, although a 45 per cent ownership by the province’s pension fund in the venture did raise concerns during the proceeding that the Quebec government may have some control over Vidéotron (CCR, March 29/00). Federal law prohibits government agencies or Crown corporations from owning broadcast licensces.

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