Mr. Frederic Perron reports

GOVERNMENT UPHOLDS BROKEN TELECOM REGIME, JEOPARDIZING CANADA'S PROSPERITY

Cogeco Inc. is dismayed by the federal government's decision to maintain the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission's broken, non-sensical wholesale Internet regime, and is profoundly disappointed by cabinet's failure to ensure economic prosperity.

The government's inaction stifles competition and investment in essential digital infrastructure by unfairly empowering the big three telecom players (Bell, Rogers and Telus) to expand through regulation by reselling the networks of smaller regional players. This will lead to reduced consumer choice and stalled network investments. By failing to correct the CRTC's flawed approach, the government has squandered a crucial chance to foster a healthy and dynamic market that benefits all Canadians.

"The federal cabinet's inaction is unacceptable," said Frederic Perron, president and chief executive officer of Cogeco. "It directly contradicts government efforts to promote sustainable competition and drive economic growth. The CRTC's current approach undermines choice and affordability, halting crucial innovation and investment vital for Canada's future. Unless corrected, this policy will have a detrimental impact on consumers and the broader Canadian economy."

Cogeco will continue to challenge the CRTC's broken wholesale regime, including through the Federal Court of Appeal.

About Cogeco Inc.

Cogeco is a North American leader in the telecommunications and media sectors. Through Cogeco Communications Inc., it provides world-class Internet, wireless, video and wire line phone services to 1.6 million residential and business subscribers in Canada and 13 states in the United States. Through Cogeco Media, it operates 21 radio stations in Canada, primarily in the province of Quebec, as well as a news agency. It takes pride in its strong presence in the communities it serves and in its commitment to a sustainable future. Both Cogeco's and Cogeco Communications' subordinate voting shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange.