A Quebec Superior Court has approved a class action against Vidéotron and Cogeco concerning rate increases announced in 2023 and 2024. This legal action was initiated by a subscriber who alleges that the increase notification was unilateral and violated the Consumer Protection Act.
Background of the Class Action
The plaintiff argues that the notification did not provide all the necessary information as required by law. According to the complaint, the notices failed to adequately inform subscribers about the modified contract terms and previous versions.
- The plaintiff claims that the right to cancel the contract without penalty within 30 days was not clearly presented.
- This oversight makes the anticipated price hikes “unenforceable and ineffective” for those affected, according to LPC Avocats, the law firm representing the plaintiff.
Responses from Vidéotron and Cogeco
Cogeco declined to comment on the matter since it is still ongoing in court. They stated that their notifications adhered to the legislator’s intent, emphasizing the need for clarity in communications without requiring formal precision.
Vidéotron has also contested the claims but did not provide an immediate comment. They referenced their interpretation of the legislator’s intention regarding consumer notifications.
Judicial Commentary
Judge Sylvain Lussier criticized both companies for allowing contract termination through telephone communication while neglecting to mention the possibility of sending a written notice within 30 days after a price increase. He noted that if the primary goal is to dissuade subscribers from canceling by compelling them to call, this contradicts the intentions of the legislator.
Next Steps in the Legal Process
The approval of the class action does not constitute a final judgment. The case is scheduled to be heard by another judge, where further arguments will be presented.
Claims for Compensation
The plaintiff is seeking compensation of $200 for each affected subscriber in connection with the disputed rate increase notifications.
Vidéotron is represented by Norton Rose Fulbright and Cogeco by Gowling in this legal dispute.
