The Globe and Mail reports in its Thursday, Dec. 4, edition that Telus is pausing its dividend growth to reduce leverage. The Globe's Irene Galea writes that Telus said it will maintain its dividend at the current level until its share price reflects growth prospects. The pause marks a reversal from two weeks ago, when Telus affirmed plans to raise its dividend. On Nov. 20, Telus chief financial officer Doug French said that management did not expect changes to the dividend-growth plan. He said Telus's dividend decisions are ultimately made by the board of directors. The company's financial documents also contain warnings that the growth could end at any time. On Wednesday Telus spokesman Steve Beisswanger said, "As outlined in our news release today, considering the current dividend yield, Telus believed that a dividend-growth pause was prudent at this time until the share price better reflects the growth prospects of the business." Telus will continue to pay its quarterly dividend at the most recent level of 41.84 cents a share. Telus shares are near their lowest point for nearly a decade. Telus's pause on dividend increases is likely to alleviate stock price pressure from short-selling investors.