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Bell Aliant brings world-class broadband network to Sault Ste. Marie, ON

Wed, 22 May 2013 12:11:17 -0400

FibreOP connects straight to the home and delivers the fastest Internet download and upload speeds

SAULT STE. MARIE, ON, May 22, 2013 /CNW/ - Bell Aliant Inc. (TSX: BA) is bringing its world-class fibre-to-the home (FTTH) network to Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, investing $15 million to pass approximately 24,000 premises in the area. FibreOP is the only network that is 100 per cent fibre directly to a customer's home or business, delivering the fastest Internet upload and download speeds, and the best digital TV experience in the market.

"FibreOP truly is a game-changing technology, and we're thrilled to continue our expansion in Ontario by bringing this state-of-the-art network to Sault Ste. Marie," said Andre LeBlanc, VP Residential Markets, Bell Aliant. "Consumers are more connected than ever before, and FibreOP is designed to deliver the best TV and Internet experience -- today and in the future."

Consumption of Internet continues to evolve, with more people using more connected devices at the same time. FibreOP can easily handle multiple connected devices, large data files and streaming video -- and delivers the best Internet and TV experience in the market. FibreOP is available for sale in the downtown area of Sault Ste. Marie starting today, and will expand throughout the city during the year.

"Bell Aliant's FibreOP network gives our city a competitive edge," said Debbie Amaroso, Mayor, City of Sault Ste. Marie. "It gives our residents access to state-of-the-art technology - on par with anyplace in the world."

"There's also great economic development potential with FibreOP," added Joe Fratesi, Chief Administrative Officer, City of Sault Ste. Marie. "In addition to the many benefits we already boast, fibre-to-the-home will be a key differentiator for the City of Sault Ste. Marie."

With Internet download speeds of up to 250 Mbps, and upload speeds as high as 30 Mbps, FibreOP delivers the best Internet experience in the market today. FibreOP also delivers the best TV experience with more than 100 HD channels, the best Whole Home PVR, and amazing apps like Facebook, Twitter, Galaxie Music and more. With a FibreOP bundle, customers save on the best of everything.

Sault Ste. Marie is part of Bell Aliant's operating territory. Through its strategic partnership with Bell, products are marketed under the Bell brand. FibreOP will be marketed as "Bell FibreOP."

Bell Aliant has passed more than 33,000 premises with FibreOP in Greater Sudbury. The service is now available in the following communities: Azilda, Blezard Valley, Chelmsford, Coniston, Garson, Hanmer, New Sudbury, and Minto. In 2012, Bell Aliant turned up the dial on its FibreOP speeds, giving Sudbury customers access to 250 Mbps download and 30 Mbps upload.

Bell Aliant was the first in Canada to cover an entire city with fibre-to-the-home. By the end of 2013, the company will have extended its fibre-optic technology to approximately 800,000 homes and businesses in its territory. Sault Ste. Marie customers can pre-register for FibreOP service at www.fibreop.ca, or call 1-866-FIBREOP (1-866-342-7367) to be notified when service is available in their area.

About Bell Aliant
Bell Aliant (TSX: BA) is one of North America's largest regional communications providers and the first company in Canada to cover an entire city with fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) technology with its FibreOP™ services. Through its operating entities, it serves customers in six Canadian provinces with innovative information, communication and technology services including voice, data, Internet, video and value-added business solutions. Bell Aliant's employees deliver the highest quality customer service, choice and convenience.

SOURCE: BELL ALIANT INC.

BCE announces election of directors

Fri, 10 May 2013 14:26:15 -0400

MONTREAL, May 10, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - BCE Inc. (TSX, NYSE: BCE) today announced that all of the nominees listed in the management proxy circular dated March 7, 2013 were elected as directors of BCE Inc. at the company's Annual and General Shareholder Meeting yesterday in Toronto.

Each of the directors was re-elected by a majority of the votes cast by shareholders present or represented by proxy. The results of the vote are detailed below.

Nominee	Votes For	% For	Votes Withheld	% Withheld
Barry K. Allen	319,235,342	96.94	10,088,335	3.06
André Bérard	319,056,329	96.88	10,259,041	3.12
Ronald A. Brenneman	319,911,275	97.11	9,515,485	2.89
Sophie Brochu	324,225,219	98.45	5,101,541	1.55
Robert E. Brown	324,126,090	98.44	5,129,569	1.56
George A. Cope	324,035,790	98.39	5,291,920	1.61
David F. Denison	325,848,028	98.94	3,479,260	1.06
Anthony S. Fell	318,829,896	96.81	10,494,548	3.19
Edward C. Lumley	325,488,440	98.83	3,838,620	1.17
Thomas C. O'Neill (Chair of the Board)	323,597,596	98.26	5,729,622	1.74
James Prentice	325,322,738	98.78	4,004,962	1.22
Robert C. Simmonds	326,357,901	99.10	2,966,533	0.90
Carole Taylor	319,883,305	97.13	9,441,478	2.87
Paul R. Weiss	325,030,450	98.70	4,294,817	1.30

Director biographies are available in the Governance section of BCE.ca.

About BCE
BCE is Canada's largest communications company, providing a comprehensive and innovative suite of broadband communication services to residential and business customers under the Bell and Bell Aliant brands. Bell Media is Canada's premier multimedia company with leading assets in television, radio and digital media, including CTV, Canada's #1 television network, and the country's most-watched specialty channels. To learn more, please visit BCE.ca.

For BCE corporate information, please visit BCE.ca. For Bell product and service information, please visit Bell.ca. For Bell Media, please visit BellMedia.ca.

SOURCE: Bell Canada

RBC and Bell to launch secure mobile payments solution

Thu, 09 May 2013 07:31:13 -0400

Canada's largest bank and Canada's largest communications company to offer efficient and secure mobile way to purchase goods and services with credit and debit

MONTREAL AND TORONTO, May 9, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - RBC and Bell today announced the upcoming availability of an easy, fast and secure way for RBC mobile banking customers to purchase goods and services with debit or credit by simply using their compatible Bell Mobility smartphones.

"RBC is excited to team up with Bell to provide our mutual clients with an integrated mobile solution for debit and credit payments," said Dave McKay, Group Head, Personal and Commercial Banking, RBC Royal Bank. "This is the first piece of a broad RBC mobile commerce solution rolling out to clients this year, all delivering the great, robust user experience and the security that RBC is known for."

The new mobile payments solution will be seamlessly integrated into RBC's existing mobile banking app and will appear as an additional option on the home screen, together with RBC's peer-to-peer solution that offers a simple way for an RBC customer to send money to any person or business in Canada.

By the end of this year, RBC and Bell Mobility customers will be able to securely pay for transactions with their RBC debit or credit cards using the BlackBerry Z10, Q10, Bold 9900, Bold 9790 or Curve 9360, and a range of Android devices from manufacturers such as Samsung, Sony, HTC, LG and more.

"Canada's largest banking institution and Canada's largest communications company are working closely together to ensure reliability, security and ease of use in mobile commerce," said Wade Oosterman, President of Bell Mobility and Residential Services, and Chief Brand Officer at Bell. "With RBC and Bell, mobile commerce just got better."

The two companies expect to make the service broadly available by the end of the year and will be road testing the solution with consumer and merchant customers over the summer.

In the development of their solution, RBC and Bell are adhering to all major card association regulations, international interoperability standards developed by the mobile GSM Association, as well as established security and interoperability standards ensuring the transaction receives similar safety and customer protection for unauthorized use to a traditional credit card. Data is stored securely on NFC SIM cards certified by major credit card providers to their international security standards. In future, Bell will make NFC SIM cards available to all NFC-capable devices.

About RBC and Payments Innovation
RBC is at the forefront of payments innovation to the Canadian marketplace. We provide industry-leading mobile banking flexibility and convenience to clients through RBC Mobile Apps - available for Android, BlackBerry, iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad - backed by our RBC Online Banking Security Guarantee. Further information about RBC mobile solutions is available at www.rbcroyalbank.com/mobile. RBC is one of North America's leading diversified financial services companies, providing personal and commercial banking, wealth management services, insurance, investor services and wholesale banking on a global basis. We employ approximately 80,000 full- and part-time employees who serve more than 15 million personal, business, public sector and institutional clients through offices in Canada, the U.S. and 49 other countries. For more information, please visit rbc.com.

RBC supports a broad range of community initiatives through donations, sponsorships and employee volunteer activities. In 2012, we contributed more than $95 million to causes worldwide, including donations and community investments of more than $64 million and $31 million in sponsorships.

About Bell
Bell is Canada's largest communications company, providing consumers and business with solutions to all their communications needs. Bell Media is Canada's premier multimedia company with leading assets in television, radio and digital media. Bell is wholly owned by Montréal's BCE Inc. (TSX, NYSE: BCE). For more information, please visit Bell.ca.

The Bell Let's Talk mental health initiative is a national charitable program that promotes Canadian mental health across Canada with the Bell Let's Talk Day anti-stigma campaign and support for community care, research and workplace best practices. To learn more, please visit Bell.ca/LetsTalk.

SOURCE: Bell Canada

BCE reports first quarter 2013 results

Thu, 09 May 2013 07:01:14 -0400

Net earnings attributable to common shareholders grow 6.6% to $566 million; Adjusted earnings per share up 11.6% to $0.77
Strong Wireless and Media EBITDA growth of 11.6% and 21.0%, respectively, drives 2.1% increase in total Bell EBITDA; consolidated EBITDA margin expands to 37.7%
Postpaid net activations of 59,497 reflect improved customer churn and continued strong adoption of smartphones, now representing 68% of postpaid base; wireless service margin increases to 44.9% on 7.2% higher service revenue
Bell Fibe TV adds 47,463 net new customers, a 41.9% increase
Improving Bell Wireline revenue and EBITDA trajectories driven by positive subscriber results in expanding Fibe TV footprint; ongoing cost savings

MONTREAL, May 9, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - BCE Inc. (TSX, NYSE: BCE), Canada's largest communications company, today reported BCE and Bell results for the first quarter (Q1) of 2013.

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS


($ millions except per share amounts) (unaudited)	Q1 2013	Q1 2012	% change
Bell⁽ⁱ⁾
Operating revenues	4,348	4,334	0.3%
EBITDA	1,641	1,608	2.1%
BCE
Operating revenues	4,919	4,910	0.2%
EBITDA	1,962	1,929	1.7%
Net earnings attributable to common shareholders	566	531	6.6%
EPS	0.73	0.69	5.8%
Adjusted EPS	0.77	0.69	11.6%
Cash flows from operating activities	1,040	1,202	(13.5%)
Free cash flow	247	331	(25.4%)
⁽ⁱ⁾Bell includes the Bell Wireless, Bell Wireline and Bell Media segments.

BCE reported Q1 net earnings attributable to common shareholders of $566 million, up 6.6% from $531 million last year, and adjusted net earnings⁽¹⁾attributable to common shareholders of $599 million, an increase of 11.5% compared to $537 million in Q1 2012. Earnings per share (EPS) of $0.73 and Adjusted EPS of $0.77 were up 5.8% and 11.6%, respectively, compared to EPS and Adjusted EPS of $0.69 in Q1 2012. The increase in Adjusted EPS was due to higher EBITDA⁽²⁾, recognition of a pension surplus entitlement, and net gains on equity derivative contracts entered into to hedge our share-based compensation liabilities.

BCE's cash flows from operating activities were $1,040 million in Q1 2013, compared to $1,202 million in Q1 2012. Free cash flow⁽³⁾ available to BCE's common shareholders was $247 million, compared to $331 million last year. The decrease is attributable primarily to the timing of cash receipts and higher income taxes paid compared to last year.

At the end of Q1, BCE (including Bell Canada and Bell Aliant) served a total of 7,815,475 wireless subscribers, up 3.6% from Q1 2012; total TV subscribers of 2,307,224, a 5.0% increase; total high-speed Internet subscribers of 3,044,285, up 1.3%; and total NAS lines of 7,995,755, a decrease of 7.0%.

BELL RESULTS
Bell operating revenues increased 0.3% to $4,348 million, driven by an increase in service revenues of 1.3%, reflecting growth in wireless, TV, Internet, media and business services such as data hosting and cloud computing.

Bell EBITDA increased 2.1% to $1,641 million, driven by strong EBITDA growth of 11.6% at Bell Wireless and 21.0% at Bell Media, moderated by a 4.5% decline at Bell Wireline. Bell's consolidated EBITDA margin expanded to 37.7% in Q1 2013 from 37.1% in Q1 2012, due to strong wireless revenue flow-through, diminishing wireline voice erosion, subsiding wireline costs related to growing Bell's Fibe TV customer base, and continued wireline operating cost savings.

"Industry-leading investment in next-generation networks and services continues to drive Bell's transformation," said George Cope, President and Chief Executive Officer of BCE and Bell. "With the Bell team's focused execution of our 6 Strategic Imperatives, our operating mix is increasingly dominated by wireless, TV, media and Internet growth services - now representing more than 80% of Bell's revenue."

"In wireless, accelerating smartphone adoption and data usage on Canada's largest LTE network supported strong revenue and EBITDA growth and decreased customer churn. Fast-growing Fibe TV is bringing enhanced competition and consumer choice to Canadian television while supporting growth in our share of three-product households, as customers increasingly bundle Bell Fibe Internet and Home Phone with Fibe TV. Growth in business IP connectivity and data services such as hosting and cloud computing also contributed to improving wireline results, while Bell Media's content leadership and strong execution supported significant EBITDA and cash flow growth," said Mr. Cope.

Bell is committed to achieving a clear goal - to be recognized by customers as Canada's leading communications company - through the execution of 6 Strategic Imperatives: Invest in Broadband Networks & Services, Accelerate Wireless, Leverage Wireline Momentum, Expand Media Leadership, Improve Customer Service, and Achieve a Competitive Cost Structure.

"We delivered a solid set of financial results in the first quarter of 2013, highlighted by healthy growth in EBITDA and earnings per share. Our dependable cash flow profile supports our ongoing strategic capital programs, as well as the increased common share dividend for 2013," said Siim Vanaselja, Chief Financial Officer for BCE and Bell. "Our wireless and wireline operations have a positive profile and are well complemented by Bell Media, which continues to deliver solid profitability. With a good start to the year across all our operating segments and no fundamental changes in outlook, our 2013 financial plan is on track as we reconfirm today all our guidance targets for the year."

BELL OPERATING RESULTS BY SEGMENT
In Q1 2013, Bell benefitted from strong wireless financial performance and operating results; improving wireline revenue and EBITDA, supported by ongoing operating cost savings; and significant EBITDA and cash flow growth from Bell Media in a tough advertising market.

Bell invested $594 million in new capital in the first quarter of 2013 to support the continued deployment of next-generation wireline and wireless broadband platforms. This was a 12.6% decrease compared to Q1 2012, reflecting higher initial rollout costs for the construction of Bell's 4G LTE mobile network in major urban markets and rapid retail store expansion in Western Canada early last year.

Bell Wireless
Bell Wireless operating revenues increased 6.3% from $1,326 million in Q1 2012 to $1,409 million in Q1 2013. Service revenues grew 7.2% to $1,303 million due to a larger smartphone base and higher blended average revenue per user (ARPU), fuelled by an increased proportion of postpaid subscribers from Western Canada and increased use of data services like Bell Mobile TV by smartphone customers.

Data revenue grew 23.9% in Q1 and now represents 39.3% of blended ARPU. Bell Wireless EBITDA grew 11.6% from $524 million in Q1 2012 to $585 million in Q1 2013, delivering a 1.8 percentage-point improvement in service margin to 44.9% from 43.1% last year.

Postpaid net additions of 59,497 in Q1 2013 were supported by higher year-over-year postpaid gross activations and lower customer churn. Postpaid gross activations increased to 295,136 in Q1 from 293,572 last year, reflecting a strong line-up of superphones and other mobile devices, expanded distribution and strong sales and marketing execution.
Prepaid net customer losses decreased to 68,454 in Q1 2013 due to fewer customer deactivations. Ongoing net losses in prepaid activations reflect aggressive acquisition offers from competitors targeted at lower-ARPU customers and Bell's continued focus on postpaid smartphone subscriber acquisition.
Smartphone users represented 68% of total postpaid subscribers at the end of Q1, compared to 52% a year earlier. Bell Wireless customers totaled 7,672,075 at the end of the quarter, an increase of 3.6%.
Postpaid customer churn improved to 1.25% from 1.35% in Q1 2012, reflecting investments in customer service and retention and lower deactivation rates on smartphones compared to other devices. Prepaid churn also improved 16 basis points to 3.79% this quarter.
Blended ARPU increased 3.9% to $55.92 in the quarter, representing a thirteenth consecutive quarter of year-over-year improvement. The growth is driven by a higher proportion of postpaid customers, increased smartphone adoption and postpaid customer growth in higher-ARPU regions, such as Western Canada.
Cost of acquisition remained essentially stable, increasing $5 to $404 per gross activation, reflecting handset pricing discipline and the benefit of the new Blackberry Z10 smartphone in Bell's device line-up.
Retention spending in the quarter held steady at 10.3% of wireless service revenues compared to 9.8% in Q1 2012, reflecting discipline in device discounting and upgrades.
Bell continues to offer customers access to Canada's largest 4G LTE network, increasing population coverage with the addition of 35 new markets in Q1. 4G LTE from Bell now reaches approximately 70% of the Canadian population, complementing the 4G HSPA+ and enhanced 4G HSPA+ DC (Dual Cell) networks that offer coast-to-coast coverage to more than 97% and more than 83% of the population, respectively.

Bell Wireline
The pace of decline in Bell's traditional wireline revenues improved over every quarter in 2012, decreasing 2.8% in Q1 2013 to $2,508 million from $2,579 million in Q1 2012. This reflects steady Fibe TV and Fibe Internet customer growth, slowing voice revenue decline, and lower upfront discounts and credits on bundle offers.

Bell Wireline EBITDA decreased 4.5% in Q1 2013 to $958 million from $1,003 million in Q1 2012, while margins were in line with plan at 38.2% (compared to 38.9% in Q1 2012), reflecting a $26 million, or 1.6%, reduction in operating costs. Wireline EBITDA was impacted by charges totalling $14 million related to a CRTC decision affecting Bell's wholesale high-speed access services business. Excluding this regulatory impact, Bell Wireline EBITDA declined 3.1% with a stable year-over-year margin of 38.8%.

Bell Fibe TV added 47,463 net new customers in Q1 2013, a 41.9% increase over the 33,443 gained in the first quarter of 2012. At the end of Q1, Bell Fibe TV subscribers totalled 295,761, up 147% over last year.
Combined Bell Satellite TV and Fibe TV net additions decreased to 13,971 this quarter, due to lower year-over-year satellite TV net activations attributable to aggressive offers from TV competitors. Bell TV's subscriber base totalled 2,169,954 at the end of Q1 2013, a year-over-year increase of 2.8%.
Fibe TV is driving Internet additions, with high-speed Internet net additions of approximately 13,000 in its territory this quarter. Overall, Bell added 1,931 net high-speed Internet customers in Q1, compared to 12,393 in the first quarter of 2012, due to higher residential DSL churn from aggressively priced service bundle offers from competitors. Bell had total high-speed Internet subscribers of 2,117,174, a 0.6% increase from Q1 2012.
Wireline data revenue was up 0.8% to $1,433 million on data service revenue growth of 3.2%. The higher revenue was fuelled by Fibe TV and Internet subscriber growth, and higher IP broadband connectivity and data hosting revenues at Bell Business Markets.
Residential NAS net losses in Q1 2013 were 83,557, 17.5% higher year over year, due to ongoing wireless and Internet substitution of wireline voice services, and heavily discounted bundle promotions from competitors. The decline was moderated by lower rates of residential NAS turnover in Bell Fibe TV service areas.
Business NAS losses improved 2.1% to 24,889 in Q1 as Bell Business Markets reduced access line losses in their large and mid-sized customer segments, while wholesale business access lines also improved year over year.
Total Bell NAS at the end of the quarter was 5,536,493, a 7.8% decline. Bell's local and access revenues declined 6.8% to $646 million, while long distance revenue declined 13.2% to $184 million.

Bell Media
Bell Media operating revenues were stable year over year, increasing 0.2% to $513 million in Q1 2013 from $512 million in Q1 2012. Subscriber fee revenue growth of 11.9% due to market-based increases for specialty TV rates paid by broadcast distributors was moderated by a soft advertising market. In line with industry trends, conventional TV and radio advertising revenues declined 5.8% in Q1 2013.

Benefitting from the flow-through of higher fee revenue from distributors and a 3.7% reduction in operating costs, Bell Media's EBITDA increased 21.0% to $98 million in Q1 2013 from $81 million in Q1 2012.

CTV broadcast the three most-watched TV events of the year in Q1: The Super Bowl, the Academy Awards and the Golden Globe Awards.
CTV's non-sports specialty services continued to post strong audience growth with 7 of the Top 20 TV programs, led by increases at Bravo, E! and CP24.
NHL audience levels were up 11% and 24% on TSN and RDS, respectively, after the league returned to the ice in January. TSN and RDS also announced a new multi-platform broadcast agreement with the CFL that extends their partnership through 2018, with media rights to all CFL pre-season and regular season games, playoffs and the Grey Cup.

BELL ALIANT RESULTS
Bell Aliant (TSX: BA) revenues increased 0.3% to $684 million in Q1 2013 from $682 million, as growth in Internet, TV and wireless was offset by continued declines in local and access and long distance revenues. Bell Aliant's EBITDA was unchanged at $321 million this quarter, as slightly higher operating revenues were offset by a 0.6% increase in operating costs. For more information, please visit BellAliant.ca.

ASTRAL UPDATE
On March 4, 2013, BCE received Competition Bureau clearance for its proposed acquisition of Astral Media Inc. Under the consent agreement with the Bureau, Astral and Bell will divest 11 TV services (and 10 radio stations, as required under the CRTC's radio common ownership policy). Corus Entertainment Inc. has agreed to purchase 6 TV services and 2 radio stations in a transaction valued at $400.6 million. Bell will retain 8 Astral TV services (including Astral's English and French-language pay TV movie services), 77 radio stations and its out-of-home advertising business, representing approximately 77% of Astral's EBITDA.

Astral and Bell submitted a revised proposal to the CRTC for approval of the transaction, including $174.64 million in tangible benefits for Canadian broadcasting, which was made public by the CRTC on March 6. The CRTC's public hearing to consider the new proposal began May 6. BCE is targeting an early summer closing of the transaction, pending CRTC approval.

COMMON SHARE DIVIDEND
BCE's Board of Directors has declared a quarterly dividend of $0.5825 per common share, payable on July 15, 2013 to shareholders of record at the close of business on June 14, 2013.

OUTLOOK
BCE confirmed its financial guidance targets for 2013, as provided on February 7, 2013, as follows:


	February 7 Guidance	May 9 Guidance
Bell ⁽ⁱ⁾
Revenue Growth	0% - 2%	On track
EBITDA Growth	1% - 3%	On track
Capital Intensity	16% - 17%	On track
BCE
Adjusted EPS ⁽ⁱⁱ⁾	$2.97 - $3.03	On track
Free Cash Flow growth ⁽ⁱⁱⁱ⁾	5% - 9%	On track
Annual common dividend per share	$2.33	$2.33

(i)	Bell's 2013 financial guidance for revenue, EBITDA and capital intensity is exclusive of Bell Aliant.
(ii)	Starting in 2013, we define Adjusted net earnings as net earnings attributable to common shareholders before severance, acquisition and other costs, net (gains) losses on investments and premiums on early redemption of debt. We define Adjusted EPS as Adjusted net earnings per BCE Inc. common share.
(iii)	Starting in 2013, we define free cash flow as cash flows from operating activities excluding acquisition costs paid and voluntary pension funding, plus dividends/distributions received from Bell Aliant, less capital expenditures, preferred share dividends, dividends/distributions paid by subsidiaries to non-controlling interest, and Bell Aliant free cash flow.

BCE anticipates updating its 2013 financial guideline after the closing of the Astral acquisition targeted for early summer.

CALL WITH FINANCIAL ANALYSTS
BCE will hold a conference call for financial analysts to discuss Q1 2013 results on Thursday, May 9 at 8:00 a.m. (Eastern). Media are welcome to participate on a listen-only basis. To participate, please dial (416) 340-8061or toll-free 1-866-225-0198 shortly before the start of the call. A replay will be available for one week by dialing (905) 694-9451 or 1-800-408-3053 and entering pass code 6518122#.

There will also be a live audio webcast of the call available on BCE's website at: BCE.ca/investors/investorevents/all/show/bce-q1-2013-results-conference-call. The mp3 file will be available for download on this page later in the day.

NOTES
The information contained in this news release is unaudited.

(1) The terms Adjusted net earnings and Adjusted EPS do not have any standardized meaning under IFRS. Therefore, they are unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. Starting in 2013, our definition of Adjusted net earnings has been modified to exclude premiums on early redemption of debt to align with the reporting practices of our peers. We define Adjusted net earnings as net earnings attributable to common shareholders before severance, acquisition and other costs, net (gains) losses on investments, and premiums on early redemption of debt. We define Adjusted EPS as Adjusted net earnings per BCE common share. We use Adjusted net earnings and Adjusted EPS, among other measures, to assess the performance of our businesses without the effects of severance, acquisition and other costs, net (gains) losses on investments, and premiums on early redemption of debt, net of tax and non-controlling interest. We exclude these items because they affect the comparability of our financial results and could potentially distort the analysis of trends in business performance. Excluding these items does not imply they are non-recurring. The most comparable IFRS financial measures are net earnings attributable to common shareholders and EPS. The following table is a reconciliation of net earnings attributable to common shareholders and EPS to Adjusted net earnings on a consolidated basis and per BCE common share (Adjusted EPS), respectively.

($ millions except per share amounts)
	Q1 2013		Q1 2012
	TOTAL	PER SHARE	TOTAL	PER SHARE
Net earnings attributable to common shareholders	566	0.73	531	0.69
Severance, acquisition and other costs	23	0.03	14	0.01
Net gains on investments	(2)	-	(8)	(0.01)
Premium on early redemption of debt	12	0.01	-	-
Adjusted net earnings	599	0.77	537	0.69

(2) The term EBITDA does not have any standardized meaning under IFRS. Therefore, it is unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. We define EBITDA as operating revenues less operating costs, as shown in BCE's consolidated income statements. We use EBITDA to evaluate the performance of our businesses as it reflects their ongoing profitability. We believe that certain investors and analysts use EBITDA to measure a company's ability to service debt and to meet other payment obligations or as a common measurement to value companies in the telecommunications industry. EBITDA also is one component in the determination of short-term incentive compensation for all management employees. EBITDA has no directly comparable IFRS financial measure. Alternatively, the following table provides a reconciliation of BCE net earnings to EBITDA.

($ millions)
		Q1 2013	Q1 2012
Net earnings		672	631
Severance, acquisition and other costs		33	19
Depreciation		675	646
Amortization		163	181
Finance costs
	Interest expense	221	207
	Interest on post-employment benefit obligations	37	33
Other (income) expense		(80)	21
Income taxes		241	191
EBITDA		1,962	1,929

(3) The term free cash flow does not have any standardized meaning under IFRS. Therefore, it is unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. Starting in 2013, our definition of free cash flow has been modified to exclude voluntary pension funding because it is a discretionary use of excess cash. We define free cash flow as cash flows from operating activities, excluding acquisition costs paid and voluntary pension funding, plus dividends/distributions received from Bell Aliant, less capital expenditures, preferred share dividends, dividends/distributions paid by subsidiaries to non-controlling interest, and Bell Aliant free cash flow. We consider free cash flow to be an important indicator of the financial strength and performance of our business because it shows how much cash is available to repay debt and reinvest in our company. We believe that certain investors and analysts use free cash flow to value a business and its underlying assets. The most comparable IFRS financial measure is cash flows from operating activities. The following table is a reconciliation of cash flows from operating activities to free cash flow on a consolidated basis.

($ millions)
	Q1 2013	Q1 2012
Cash flows from operating activities	1,040	1,202
Bell Aliant dividends/distributions to BCE	48	48
Capital expenditures	(722)	(817)
Cash dividends paid on preferred shares	(26)	(33)
Cash dividends/ distributions paid by subsidiaries to non-controlling interest	(73)	(79)
Acquisition costs paid	10	25
Bell Aliant free cash flow	(30)	(15)
Free cash flow	247	331

CAUTION CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
Certain statements made in this news release, including, but not limited to, statements relating to our 2013 financial guidance (including revenues, EBITDA, Capital Intensity, Adjusted EPS and Free Cash Flow), our business outlook, objectives, plans and strategic priorities, BCE's 2013 annualized common share dividend, the expected timing and completion of BCE's proposed acquisition of Astral and BCE's proposed divestiture of certain TV services and radio stations in connection with such proposed acquisition, our ongoing strategic capital investment programs, and other statements that are not historical facts, are forward-looking. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by the words assumption, goal, guidance, objective, outlook, project, strategy, target and other similar expressions or future or conditional verbs such as aim, anticipate, believe, could, expect, intend, may, plan, seek, should, strive and will. All such forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the 'safe harbour' provisions of applicable Canadian securities laws and of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.

Forward-looking statements, by their very nature, are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties and are based on several assumptions, both general and specific, which give rise to the possibility that actual results or events could differ materially from our expectations expressed in or implied by such forward-looking statements. As a result, we cannot guarantee that any forward-looking statement will materialize and you are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release describe our expectations as of May 9, 2013 and, accordingly, are subject to change after such date. Except as may be required by Canadian securities laws, we do not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements contained in this news release, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Except as otherwise indicated by BCE, forward-looking statements do not reflect the potential impact of any non-recurring or other special items or of any dispositions, monetizations, mergers, acquisitions, other business combinations or other transactions that may be announced or that may occur after May 9, 2013. The financial impact of these transactions and non-recurring and other special items can be complex and depends on the facts particular to each of them. We therefore cannot describe the expected impact in a meaningful way or in the same way we present known risks affecting our business. Forward-looking statements are presented for the purpose of assisting investors and others in understanding certain key elements of our expected 2013 financial results, as well as our objectives, strategic priorities and business outlook for 2013, and in obtaining a better understanding of our anticipated operating environment. Readers are cautioned that such information may not be appropriate for other purposes.

Material Assumptions
A number of economic, market, operational and financial assumptions were made by BCE in preparing its forward-looking statements for 2013 contained in this news release, including, but not limited to:

Canadian Economic and Market Assumptions

Growth in the Canadian economy of 1.5% in 2013, based on the Bank of Canada's most recent estimate, a fiftybasis point decrease compared with an earlier estimate of 2%;
a slow pace of employment growth and new business formation affecting overall business customer demand;
a sustained level of wireline and wireless competition in both consumer and business markets;
higher wireline replacement, due primarily to increasing wireless and Internet-based technological substitution;
increasing wireless industry penetration driven, in particular, by the accelerated adoption of smartphones, tablets and data applications, the expansion of LTE service in most urban and sub-urban markets, the proliferation of 4G devices, as well as population growth; and
a soft advertising market for Bell Media.

Operational Assumptions Concerning Bell Wireline (Excluding Bell Aliant)

stabilizing residential NAS line erosion rate as we leverage our broadband investment in FibeTV to drive three-product household penetration, increase our MDU market share, and generate higher pull-through attach rates for our residential Internet and Home Phone services;
in particular, targeted retention and service bundle offers, customer win backs and better service execution to contribute to the improvement in residential NAS line losses year over year, subject to the risk of more aggressive service bundle offers from our cable TV competitors and increasingly affordable Canada-wide unlimited wireless plans, which could lead to higher residential NAS line losses;
increased subscriber acquisition at Bell TV to be driven by increased customer adoption of Fibe TV, as we further extend our IPTV broadband fibre footprint in areas of Ontario and Québec, and our ability to seek greater penetration within the MDU market, capitalize on our extensive retail distribution network, which includes The Source, and leverage our market leadership position in high definition (HD) programming;
improved subscriber acquisition at Bell Internet through increased fibre coverage and speeds as we leverage our significant network capital investment and the implementation of new technologies to drive greater Fibe TV expansion and Internet attach rates;
gradual improvement in the performance of our Business Markets unit based on increased business customer spending, new business formation and higher demand for connectivity and ICT services driven by a strengthening economy and an improvement in employment rates, subject to the risk of business customers adopting more conservative strategies which could result in lower capital spending requirements and deferral of ICT projects;
continued customer migration to IP-based systems, increased competitive intensity in mass and mid-sized business segments as cable operators and other telecom competitors continue to intensify their focus on the business segment and ongoing competitive reprice pressures in our business and wholesale markets; and
cost savings to be achieved from management workforce attrition and retirements, call center efficiencies, field service productivity improvements, further reduction in supplier contract rates, lower print and mail costs, effective content cost management and reducing traffic that is not on our own network.

Operational Assumptions Concerning Bell Wireless (Excluding Bell Aliant)

Bell Wireless to benefit from the flow-through of investments made in 2012 in customer acquisition and retention, along with continued strength in smartphone activations and data usage;
continued aggressive competition in 2013 as competitors attempt to maintain or gain wireless market share;
wireless revenue growth to be underpinned by continued growth in our subscriber base and ARPU, driven by a higher mix of smartphone and higher-value postpaid customers, increased distribution in western Canada, new services, and continued disciplined price management;
Bell Wireless to benefit from ongoing technological improvements by manufacturers in our handset and device line-up and from faster data speeds that are allowing our clients to optimize the use of our services; and
the proliferation of more expensive and sophisticated wireless devices, as well as heightened competitive activity, to exert pressure on EBITDA, due mainly to increased handset discount resulting in higher subscriber acquisition and customer retention costs.

Operational Assumptions Concerning Bell Media

the non-recurrence, in 2013, of significant events that occurred in 2012, including the London Summer Olympic Games, the NHL lockout and retroactive rate increases for specialty programming services;
the intended launch, in 2013, of our TV Everywhere product, a strategic initiative aimed at enabling us to deliver the best live sports, news and other premium content exclusively to broadcasting distribution undertakings' (BDUs) subscribers;
growth in subscriber revenues to be driven by contracted market-based rate increases for our specialty sports services;
in conventional TV, building and maintaining strategic supply arrangements for content on four screens continuing to successfully acquire high-rated programming and differentiated content to execute on Bell's multi-screen content strategy, producing and commissioning high-quality Canadian content, and producing market-leading news through investments in HD broadcasting and improvements to our news programming;
increased costs to secure content in our sports broadcast operations as we face greater competition from both new entrants and established competitors, and as market rates for specialty content generally increase;
in our non-sports specialty TV services, investment in quality programming and production, marketing and ongoing development of key brand partnership initiatives with respect to our existing services; and
the achievement of cost management by maximizing assets, achieving productivity gains and pursuing operational efficiencies.

Financial Assumptions Concerning Bell (Excluding Bell Aliant)

Bell's total employee benefit plans cost to be approximately $340 million, based on an estimated accounting discount rate of 4.4% and an expected return on plan assets of 4.4%, comprised of an estimated above EBITDA employee benefit plans service cost of approximately $220 million and an estimated below EBITDA net employee benefit plans financing cost of approximately $120 million;
total pension plan cash funding to be approximately $350 million;
cash taxes to be approximately $300 million, and;
net interest expense and payments to be approximately $700 million.

Financial Assumptions Concerning BCE

BCE's total employee benefit plans cost to be approximately $420 million, including approximately $80 million for Bell Aliant, comprised of an estimated above EBITDA employee benefit plans service cost of approximately $280 million and an estimated below EBITDA net employee benefit plans financing cost of approximately $140 million;
depreciation and amortization expense approximately $50 million higher compared to 2012;
net interest expense of approximately $875 million;
tax adjustments (per share) of approximately $0.07;
an effective tax rate of approximately 26%;
non-controlling interest similar to 2012; and
an annual common share dividend of $2.33 per share.

The foregoing assumptions, although considered reasonable by BCE on May 9, 2013, may prove to be inaccurate. Accordingly, our actual results could differ materially from our expectations as set forth in this news release.

Material Risks
Important risk factors that could cause our assumptions and estimates to be inaccurate and actual results or events to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by our forward-looking statements, including our 2013 financial guidance, are listed below. The realization of our forward-looking statements, including our ability to meet our 2013 financial guidance, essentially depends on our business performance which, in turn, is subject to many risks. Accordingly, readers are cautioned that any of the following risks could have a material adverse effect on our forward-looking statements. These risks include, but are not limited to:

the intensity of competitive activity and the resulting impact on our ability to retain existing customers and attract new ones, as well as on our pricing strategies, ARPU and financial results;
the level of technological substitution contributing to reduced utilization of traditional wireline voice services and the increasing number of households that use only wireless telephone services;
the increased adoption by customers of alternative TV services;
variability in subscriber acquisition and retention costs based on subscriber acquisitions, retention volumes, smartphone sales and handset discount levels;
regulatory initiatives or proceedings, litigation, changes in laws or regulations and tax matters;
our failure to maintain network operating performance including as a result of the significant increase in broadband demand and in the volume of wireless data driven traffic;
events affecting the functionality of, and our ability to protect, maintain and replace, our networks, equipment, facilities and other assets;
our ability to maintain customer service and our networks operational in the event of the occurrence of environmental disasters or epidemics, pandemics and other health risks;
our ability to anticipate and respond to technological change, upgrade our networks and rapidly offer new products and services;
our failure to implement, on a timely basis, or maintain effective IT systems and the complexity and costs of our IT environment;
general economic and financial market conditions, the level of consumer confidence and spending, and the demand for, and prices of, our products and services;
our ability to implement our strategies and plans in order to produce the expected benefits, including our ability to continue to implement our cost reduction initiatives and contain capital intensity while seeking to improve customer service;
increased contributions to post-employment benefit plans;
ineffective management of changes resulting from restructurings and other corporate initiatives and from the integration of business units and business acquisitions;
the complexity of our product offerings and pricing plans;
labour disruptions;
employee retention and performance;
events affecting the ability of third-party suppliers to provide to us, and our ability to purchase, essential products and services;
the quality of our network and customer equipment and the extent to which they may be subject to manufacturing defects;
capital and other expenditure levels, financing and debt requirements and our ability to raise the capital we need to implement our business plan, including for BCE's dividend payments and to fund capital and other expenditures and generally meet our financial obligations;
our ability to discontinue certain traditional services as necessary to improve capital and operating efficiencies;
launch and in-orbit risks of satellites used by Bell ExpressVu Limited Partnership;
the theft of our DTH satellite television services;
Bell Media's significant dependence on continued demand for advertising, and the potential adverse effect thereon from economic conditions, cyclical and seasonal variations and competitive pressures;
the adverse effect of new technology and increasing fragmentation in Bell Media's television and radio markets;
health concerns about radio frequency emissions from wireless devices;
BCE's dependence on the ability of its subsidiaries, joint ventures and other companies in which it has an interest to pay dividends and make other distributions;
there can be no certainty that dividends will be declared by BCE's board of directors or that BCE's dividend policy will be maintained;
stock market volatility;
our failure to evolve practices and effectively monitor and control fraudulent activities; and
the expected timing and completion of the proposed acquisition by BCE of Astral is subject to approval by the CRTC, other closing conditions, termination rights and other risks and uncertainties; and the proposed divestiture by BCE of certain TV services and radio stations is also subject to closing conditions, termination rights and other risks and uncertainties including, without limitation, regulatory approvals; accordingly, there can be no certainty that the proposed transactions will be completed or that anticipated benefits will be realized.

We caution that the foregoing list of risk factors is not exhaustive and other factors could also adversely affect our results. We encourage investors to also read BCE's 2012 Annual MD&A dated March 7, 2013 (included in the BCE 2012 Annual Report) and BCE's 2013 First Quarter MD&A dated May 8, 2013, for additional information with respect to certain of these and other assumptions and risks, filed by BCE with the Canadian securities commissions (available at www.sedar.com) and with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (available at www.sec.gov). These documents are also available on BCE's website at www.bce.ca.

ABOUT BCE
BCE is Canada's largest communications company, providing a comprehensive and innovative suite of broadband communication services to residential and business customers under the Bell and Bell Aliant brands. Bell Media is Canada's premier multimedia company with leading assets in television, radio and digital media, including CTV, Canada's #1 television network, and the country's most-watched specialty channels. To learn more, please visit BCE.ca.

The Bell Let's Talk mental health initiative is a national charitable and awareness program promoting mental health across Canada with the Bell Let's Talk Day anti-stigma campaign and significant Bell funding of community care and access, research, and workplace initiatives. To learn more, please visit Bell.ca/LetsTalk.

For BCE corporate information, please visit BCE.ca. For Bell product and service information, please visit Bell.ca. For Bell Media, please visit BellMedia.ca.

SOURCE: Bell Canada

Bell Let's Talk donates $230,000 to the Jewish General Hospital Foundation

Tue, 07 May 2013 11:16:22 -0400

Funds will increase support, training and access to the Child Psychiatry Transitional Care Program at JGH

MONTREAL, May 7, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - The Jewish General Hospital (JGH) Foundation is pleased to announce a generous donation of $230,000 over three years from the Bell Let's Talk mental health initiative in support of the JGH's Child Psychiatry Transitional Care Program. This unique program is designed to integrate former patients back into their schools and communities and prevent re-admission to Child Psychiatry services.

This important donation will enable the Transitional Care Program to now serve a larger number of children and families, as well as provide specialized training and support to educators and community service providers.

"These children were referred for mental health problems so severe that they were unable to attend their community schools, and are at greater risk for developing serious mental disorders later in life," said Dr. Phyllis Zelkowitz, Director of Research in the Department of Psychiatry. "After a period of intense treatment in Child Psychiatry, it can be a challenge for families to find the services and support that they need in the community, and many of the gains children make while in treatment can be lost. There is an urgent need for a program like this one, which provides continuity of care, helps parents to serve as advocates for their children, and assists educators in maintaining the children in their community schools."

The program utilizes social and childcare workers to provide the necessary follow-up care and support for children aged five to twelve and their families, building a trusted home-school partnership in the process that focuses on the child's positive academic and social development. Transitional Care Program workers will also develop consultation and training workshops along with French and English language print and online resources for school personnel and service providers in CSSSs and other community organizations to provide ongoing support and knowledge sharing, especially in terms of early detection and prevention.

"Bell Let's Talk is committed to improving access to mental health training, education and care," said Martine Turcotte, Bell's Vice Chair, Québec. "We are proud to support the Jewish General Hospital in helping young people and their families get the support they need through the Child Psychiatry Transitional Care Program."

"Bell's thoughtful support will make a lifelong difference for children coping with mental illness and our society as a whole," said JGH Foundation President and CEO Myer Bick. "It is thanks to the commitment and vision of leading corporate citizens like Bell that we can pave the way for better treatment and outcomes for our children today and in years to come."

About the Jewish General Hospital
Since 1934, the Jewish General Hospital has been a mainstay of superior medical care for generations of patients of all backgrounds. One of Quebec's largest and busiest acute-care hospitals, the JGH is committed to improving the quality of healthcare for all Quebecers in partnership with the provincial healthcare network. Moreover, The Jewish General Hospital has redoubled its commitment providing patients the best possible care in a clean, safe and human-centered environment. The JGH is able to deliver these pioneering, innovative medical services by strengthening its role as a McGill University teaching hospital, by expanding and upgrading its facilities, and by pursuing cutting-edge research at the Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research. For more information, please visit jgh.ca.

About the Jewish General Hospital Foundation
The Jewish General Hospital Foundation's mission is to advance health care and medical research for the people of Quebec and beyond by supporting Montreal's Jewish General Hospital, a tertiary care, McGill University teaching hospital. The JGH Foundation provides essential assistance to the Hospital to enhance its extraordinary patient care, to further scientific discovery and to acquire the most recent and innovative medical equipment. We partner with inspired members of the community to implement a wide variety of fundraising initiatives to achieve these ambitious goals. For more information, please visit jghfoundation.org.

About Bell Let's Talk
Bell Let's Talk is a national initiative to promote Canadian mental health, based on 4 action pillars: Anti-stigma, care and access, research, and workplace best practices. To learn more, please visit Bell.ca/LetsTalk. Headquartered in Montréal since 1880, Bell is Canada's largest communications company. To learn more, please visit Bell.ca.

SOURCE: Bell Canada

Bell Aliant brings the digital home to life; NextGen Home Security now available

Tue, 07 May 2013 09:36:21 -0400

Bell Aliant trusted technicians set to begin installations
Using a personal device, customers can remotely control their home security system, lights, thermostat and more.

HALIFAX, May 7, 2013 /CNW/ - Bell Aliant Inc.'s (TSX: BA) NextGen Home Security™ is now available on Atlantic Canada's most advanced broadband network. The service will roll out first in Halifax, Sydney, St. John's, Saint John, Moncton, Fredericton and Charlottetown. Residents in those cities can now book appointments to receive the latest technology to monitor, protect and control their homes. The company will soon expand availability to other communities across Atlantic Canada.

"We're delivering the future of home security and automation technology to customers - today," said Dan McKeen, senior vice president, customer solutions, Bell Aliant. "Powered by our world class broadband network, NextGen Home Security helps people create a truly digital home. This is not your parents' security system. It's so much more, with built in peace of mind plus digital features that put you in the driver's seat so you can manage your whole home even when you can't be there."

NextGen Home Security is an affordable Internet-based service designed for consumers' digital lifestyles. Innovative features allow homeowners to protect and control their homes from anywhere. Customers can receive texts when someone enters the home and then view a video of the person walking through the door. They can also remotely arm and disarm the system, lock and unlock doors and check on their home, children or family pet from a smartphone, tablet or PC.

Bell Aliant's team of trusted and reliable technicians is specially trained and certified to set-up and customize the system for every customer.

Bell Aliant bundle customers can purchase the NextGen Home Security Standard Package for $34.95/month. This includes 24/7 Professional Security Monitoring and remote management via web portal and mobile devices. The Plus Package offers the same security, monitoring, and remote management services, plus secure video monitoring, lighting and small appliance control. Bell Aliant bundle customers can purchase this package for $44.95/month. The Plus Package also allows customers to customize their system with additional monitoring and automation devices such as door locks and thermostats.

Residents in Halifax, Sydney, St. John's, Saint John, Moncton, Fredericton, and Charlottetown can register today to book an installation or a free in-home assessment to switch from an existing system or set up a new one. Visit bellaliant.net/homesecurity or call 1-855-777-4117 to find out more.

Today, Bell Aliant is also launching the Smartest Home on the Block photo caption contest on Facebook. For the next four weeks, customers in Atlantic Canada can enter to win one of four Samsung Galaxy tablets. For more details, visit the contest page on Facebook at http://bddy.me/Ytb8Th.

Image with caption: "Bell Aliant certified security technician, Nicole Marks installs NextGen Home Security at the home of Bell Aliant employee Carlos Barbosa (CNW Group/BELL ALIANT INC.)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20130507_C4158_PHOTO_EN_26442.jpg

Image with caption: "Nicole Marks, certified security technician completes installation of Bell Aliant NextGen Home Security at home of Bell Aliant employee Carlos Barbosa (CNW Group/BELL ALIANT INC.)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20130507_C4158_PHOTO_EN_26440.jpg

Image with caption: "Nicole Marks, certified NextGen Home Security technician, shows Carlos Barbosa how to operate the system keypad (CNW Group/BELL ALIANT INC.)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20130507_C4158_PHOTO_EN_26446.jpg

Image with caption: "Certified security technician Nicole Marks installs Bell Aliant NextGen Home Security (CNW Group/BELL ALIANT INC.)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20130507_C4158_PHOTO_EN_26444.jpg

SOURCE: BELL ALIANT INC.

Bell Aliant Inc. announces election of directors

Thu, 02 May 2013 16:06:17 -0400

HALIFAX, May 2, 2013 /CNW/ - Bell Aliant Inc. (TSX: BA) today announced that the nominees listed in the management information circular for the 2013 annual meeting of shareholders were elected as directors of the company at its Annual General Meeting held on May 2, 2013. The results of the vote are as follows:

DIRECTOR	VOTES FOR	%	VOTES WITHHELD	%	TOTAL

George Cope	129,031,487	94.3	7,836,436	5.7	136,867,923
Catherine Bennett	135,702,237	99.1	1,165,663	0.9	136,867,900
Robert Dexter	135,540,733	99.0	1,326,921	1.0	136,867,654
Edward Reevey	136,050,420	99.4	817,480	0.6	136,867,900
Karen Sheriff	130,346,534	95.2	6,521,366	4.8	136,867,900
Louis Tanguay	136,008,003	99.4	859,672	0.6	136,867,675
Martine Turcotte	129,677,977	94.7	7,189,698	5.3	136,867,675
Siim Vanaselja	123,512,911	90.2	13,354,764	9.8	136,867,675
John Watson	129,733,862	94.8	7,133,813	5.2	136,867,675
David Wells	123,425,354	90.2	13,442,321	9.8	136,867,675

About Bell Aliant

Bell Aliant (TSX: BA) is one of North America's largest regional communications providers and the first company in Canada to cover an entire city with FTTH technology with its FibreOP™ services. Through its operating entities, it serves customers in six Canadian provinces with innovative information, communication and technology services including voice, data, Internet, video and value-added business solutions. Bell Aliant's employees deliver the highest quality customer service, choice and convenience.

SOURCE: BELL ALIANT INC.

Bell Aliant reports first quarter 2013 results

Wed, 01 May 2013 13:46:16 -0400

Operating revenues up $2 million driven by FibreOP^TM growth
Best year-over-year EBITDA rate-of-change since 2009
Free cash flow up $15 million
FibreOP TV customer additions of 15,600 up 47 per cent from Q1 2012
FibreOP Internet customer additions of 17,900 up 40 per cent from Q1 2012
Fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) footprint expands to 679,000 premises

This news release contains forward-looking statements. For a description of the related risk factors and assumptions please see the section entitled "Forward-looking Information" later in this release.

HALIFAX, May 1, 2013 /CNW/ - Bell Aliant Inc. (TSX: BA) today reported financial results for the first quarter of 2013 for Bell Aliant Inc. (Bell Aliant) and Bell Aliant Regional Communications Inc. (Bell Aliant GP).

"Returning to revenue growth is a key milestone in our strategy and our first quarter results have us off to a great start for 2013," said Karen Sheriff, president and chief executive officer, Bell Aliant. "Successful execution of the strategy we initially launched in 2009 has resulted in progressive improvements throughout the business over the last four years that are now turning the revenue trajectory positive, demonstrating that our plan is working.

"In the first quarter of 2013, we achieved our best quarterly year-over-year EBITDA rate-of-change since Q4 2009. We did this despite a $4 million regulatory charge taken in the quarter, most of which was a retroactive charge for 2012. Expansion of our FTTH network and solid cost management continued to drive our improving results. As I have said many times, revenue growth will come first, and EBITDA growth will follow. I am very pleased to see these improving trends coming to pass.

"We are approaching a level of critical mass with our FTTH footprint, with substantial capacity to add more FibreOP customers to this world-class network. The competitive environment is intense and we are prevailing by offering customers in our FTTH markets the best Internet technology available today and a premium IPTV service, giving us a competitive advantage that will serve us well for years to come. FTTH, with all of its benefits, is the key to our future success.

"While our results are improving, we have much in front of us that we still need to achieve and must continue to execute. We have a solid plan and with the results we have demonstrated to date, my confidence in our ability to return Bell Aliant to profitable growth continues to build."

First quarter 2013 highlights¹

Bell Aliant Inc. reported net earnings of $84 million for the first quarter of 2013, up $1 million from the first quarter of 2012. Earnings per share and adjusted earnings per share were $0.36 and $0.43 respectively, consistent with the first quarter of 2012.

First quarter financial highlights of Bell Aliant GP are summarized as follows:

(In millions of dollars) (unaudited)	Q1 2013	Q1 2012	Change
Operating Revenue	$684	$682	0.3%
EBITDA ⁽¹⁾	324	325	(0.5%)
Capital Expenditures	128	137	(6.2%)
Free Cash Flow ⁽¹⁾	95	80	18.5%

⁽¹⁾	EBITDA, free cash flow and adjusted earnings per share are non-IFRS financial measures. Refer to the "Non-IFRS financial measures" section of Bell Aliant GP's Q1 2013 Management's Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) for details.

Operating revenues of $684 million in the first quarter of 2013 grew by $2 million (0.3 per cent) from the same quarter in 2012. Growth in TV, Internet, wireless, and other revenues offset declines in local and long distance revenues.

Excluding the effects of a retroactive regulatory adjustment in the first quarter of 2013, operating expenses in the first quarter of 2013 were flat to the same quarter in 2012. TV content and customer support cost pressures from a growing FibreOP customer base were offset by expense reductions throughout the business, largely driven by productivity savings.

EBITDA in the first quarter of 2013 included a $4 million largely retroactive charge arising from a CRTC decision affecting wholesale Internet rates. EBITDA declined by 0.5 per cent in the first quarter of 2013 compared to the same quarter in 2012.

Capital expenditures in the first quarter of 2013 were $128 million, down $9 million (6.2 per cent) from the same quarter a year earlier. Higher FibreOP customer connection costs were more than offset by lower FTTH footprint expansion, reduced central Canada FibreOP startup costs, and lower legacy capital expenditures compared to the first quarter of 2012.

Bell Aliant passed an additional 23,000 premises with FTTH in the first quarter of 2013, compared to 58,000 incremental premises in the first quarter of 2012. Total FTTH coverage reached more than 679,000 premises at the end of March 2013. Approximately 5,000 more customer premises were connected to Bell Aliant's FTTH network in the first quarter of 2013 compared to the same quarter in 2012. FibreOP penetration of premises passed reached 19.6 per cent at the end of March 2013.

Free cash flow was $95 million in the first quarter of 2013, up $15 million (18.5 per cent) from the same quarter a year earlier. The increase was primarily a result of lower capital expenditures, lower restructuring payments, and higher cash from other operating activities compared to the first quarter of 2012.

Revenue details
Total data revenue including Internet and TV increased $19 million (8.0 per cent) in the first quarter of 2013 compared to the same period in 2012.

Internet revenue increased $8 million (6.4 per cent) with residential high-speed average revenue per customer (ARPC) in the first quarter of 2013, up 6.0 per cent from the same quarter a year earlier. The ARPC increase was a result of selected pricing action and customer demand for higher bandwidth bundles and other services. Growth in high-speed Internet customers of 2.8 per cent from a year earlier also contributed to Internet revenue growth. FibreOP Internet customers grew by 17,900, bringing total FibreOP Internet customers to 130,100 at the end of March 2013. FibreOP Internet additions include existing Bell Aliant customers migrating from DSL and fibre-to-the-node (FTTN) networks to the upgraded service. These migrations do not contribute to overall high-speed customer growth but increasingly contribute to improved customer retention and growth in overall customer ARPC. Overall net high-speed Internet customer additions were 8,700 in the first quarter of 2013, up from 6,400 in the same quarter of 2012, bringing total high-speed Internet customers to 927,100 at the end of March 2013.

IPTV revenue grew $11 million in the first quarter of 2013 compared to the first quarter of 2012 with total IPTV customers of 137,300 at the end of March 2013. FibreOP TV customers grew by 15,600 in the quarter to reach 112,500, a portion of which were migrations from Bell Aliant's FTTN TV service. Overall net IPTV customer additions were 14,300 in the first quarter of 2013, compared to 7,900 a year earlier.

Local service and long distance revenues declined $14 million (4.9 per cent) and $9 million (10.0 per cent), respectively, in the first quarter of 2013 compared to the same quarter in 2012, driven by NAS declines of 5.2 per cent. Residential net NAS declines of 26,200 in the first quarter of 2013 were on par with the same quarter in 2012. Improved residential customer activations, winbacks and retention in FibreOP markets, and expansion into new markets helped to mitigate declines arising from intense competitive activity throughout our markets. Business net NAS declines of 5,900 improved by 2,700 from the same quarter a year earlier, mainly as a result of expansion into new markets.

Wireless revenues were up $2 million (6.1 per cent) in the first quarter of 2013 compared to the same quarter in 2012, driven by 4.2 per cent customer growth and 1.4 per cent wireless ARPC growth compared to a year ago.

Other revenues were up $4 million (11.1 per cent) in the first quarter of 2013 compared to the same quarter in 2012, mainly as a result of higher pole attachment fees and custom work.

Declared Dividends

Bell Aliant declared a quarterly dividend of $0.475 per common share, payable on June 28, 2013, to shareholders of record at the close of business on June 14, 2013.

Bell Aliant Preferred Equity Inc. declared a dividend on its Series A Preferred Shares of $0.303125 per share and a dividend on its Series C Preferred Shares of $0.284375 per share, each to be paid on June 28, 2013, to shareholders of record at the close of business on June 14, 2013.

Bell Aliant Preferred Equity Inc. also declared the first dividend on its Series E Preferred Shares of $0.3959 per share to be paid on June 28, 2013, to shareholders of record at the close of business on June 14, 2013. The initial dividend covers the period from February 15, 2013, to June 30, 2013. Future Series E preferred dividends are expected to be $0.265625 quarterly or $1.0625 annually, until the end of the initial rate reset period on September 30, 2018.

Unless otherwise stated, dividends paid by Bell Aliant and Bell Aliant Preferred Equity Inc. to Canadian residents are "eligible dividends" as defined by the Canadian Income Tax Act and corresponding provincial legislation.

Additional Information

More information on Bell Aliant's and Bell Aliant GP's first quarter 2013 can be found in Bell Aliant's first quarter 2013 supplementary information package and Bell Aliant Inc. and Bell Aliant GP's first quarter 2013 MD&As, available at www.bellaliant.ca/investors and on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

Analyst conference call

A conference call with the financial community is scheduled for May 1, 2013, at 4:30 p.m. (Eastern). The dial-in numbers are 866-226-1792 and 416-340-2216 for Toronto area participants. Media are invited to attend in listen-only mode. A replay of the session can be heard until June 1, 2013. To access the replay, dial 800-408-3053 or 905-694-9451 and enter the passcode 3266319#.

A live audio webcast of the conference call can be accessed on www.bellaliant.ca under the Investor Relations section. A replay of the conference call will be available on the website for one year.

Notes

The information contained in this news release is unaudited.

(1)	Bell Aliant derives virtually all of its income from its ownership in Bell Aliant GP. Bell Aliant GP's results consolidate the results of Bell Aliant Regional Communications, Limited Partnership, Télébec, Limited Partnership, NorthernTel, Limited Partnership, and Bell Aliant Preferred Equity Inc.

(2)	Percentage changes quoted in this release related to dollar values are based on amounts rounded to the nearest hundred-thousand, consistent with disclosure in Bell Aliant's supplementary information package and Bell Aliant GP's MD&A for the first quarter of 2013. Dollar values quoted in this release are rounded to the nearest million unless otherwise stated. Customer metrics are rounded to the nearest hundred unless otherwise stated.

(3)	Definitions of non-IFRS measures:

	a.	EBITDA: Bell Aliant defines EBITDA as operating revenue less operating expenses before interest, income taxes, depreciation and amortization expense, and severance and other charges.

	b.	Free cash flow: Bell Aliant defines free cash flow as cash generated from operating activities less capital expenditures. Free cash flow includes the operations of Bell Aliant and Bell Aliant GP on a combined basis.

	c.	Adjusted earnings per share: Bell Aliant defines adjusted earnings per share as fully diluted earnings per share of Bell Aliant Inc. adjusted for the per share effect of purchase price allocation amortization (PPA) net of income taxes.

For a reconciliation of these non-IFRS financial measures to the most closely comparable IFRS financial measures, please refer to Bell Aliant GP's MD&A for the first quarter of 2013 available at www.bellaliant.ca/investors and www.sedar.com.

Forward-looking Information
This news release contains forward-looking statements concerning anticipated future events, results, circumstances or expectations, in particular statements concerning revenue and EBITDA growth, FTTH expansion plans, and future preferred dividend payments. Unless otherwise indicated, such forward-looking statements describe management's expectations at May 1, 2013. These statements are based on management's beliefs regarding future events, many of which, by their nature are inherently uncertain and beyond management's control. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to assumptions which may prove to be inaccurate and numerous risks and uncertainties which are difficult to predict.

Bell Aliant encourages investors to review the risk factors section below, and related disclosures, for a discussion of the various factors that could cause actual results to differ from what is currently expected.

Risk Factors
There are many factors that could cause results or events to differ materially from current expectations. The most significant factors that Bell Aliant has identified that may affect Bell Aliant's results or events in 2013 include but are not limited to: increasing competition; cost management; financing and free cash flow; network evolution; pension valuation and investment risk; legislative and regulatory factors; outsourcing and vendor relationships; information technology (IT); human capital; as well as the structural subordination of our common shares; limitations on non-resident ownership; dilution, unpredictability and volatility of our share price; and tax related risks. Some of these risk factors are largely beyond Bell Aliant's control. For additional information on material factors and assumptions used to develop forward-looking information and risk factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from forward-looking information, see also the "Risks that could affect our business results" section of Bell Aliant Inc.'s MD&A for the year ended December 31, 2012, and the "Assumptions made in the preparation of forward-looking information" and "Risks that could affect our business and results" sections of Bell Aliant Regional Communications Inc.'s MD&A for the year ended December 31, 2012, as updated by their 2013 first quarter MD&As, as well as the "Risk Factors" sections of Bell Aliant Inc.'s and Bell Aliant Regional Communication Inc.'s 2012 Annual Information Forms. These documents are available at www.bellaliant.ca/investors and www.sedar.com.

Should any risk factor affect Bell Aliant in an unexpected manner, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements prove incorrect, the actual results or events may differ materially from the results or events predicted. Unless otherwise indicated, forward-looking information does not take into account the effect that transactions, or non-recurring or other special items, announced or occurring after this information is provided may have on the business. All of the forward-looking information reflected in this press release and the documents referred to within it are qualified by these cautionary statements. There can be no assurance that the results or developments anticipated by Bell Aliant will be realized or, even if substantially realized, that they will have the expected consequences for Bell Aliant.

Except as may be required by Canadian securities laws, Bell Aliant disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, even if new information becomes available, as a result of future events or for any other reason. Readers should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is provided for the purpose of providing information about management's current expectations and plans relating to fiscal 2013 or other future periods. Readers are cautioned that such information may not be appropriate for other purposes.

About Bell Aliant
Bell Aliant (TSX: BA) is one of North America's largest regional communications providers and the first company in Canada to cover an entire city with FTTH technology with its FibreOP services. Through its operating entities it serves customers in six Canadian provinces with innovative information, communication and technology services including voice, data, Internet, video and value-added business solutions. Bell Aliant's employees deliver the highest quality customer service, choice and convenience.

SOURCE: BELL ALIANT INC.

Bell Let's Talk and True Patriot Love launch military family mental health fund

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 08:31:20 -0400

$1 million fund for community-based mental health support
Grants from $5,000 to $25,000 to deliver programs at Military Family Resource Centres across Canada
Applications for 2013 funding accepted from April 30 through June 28, 2013
Bell continues as presenting sponsor of the True Patriot Love Tribute Dinner through 2014

OTTAWA, April 30, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - Bell Canada and the True Patriot Love Foundation today announced the launch of the Bell True Patriot Love Fund, a $1 million program to support community mental health initiatives for Canadian military families.

"I salute the collaboration and support of Bell and True Patriot Love in bringing mental health and mental illness to the attention of Canadians," said the Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence. "The Canadian Armed Forces are proud participants in Bell Let's Talk Day and share in the goal of ending the stigma surrounding mental illness."

Starting this year and through 2016, the Bell True Patriot Love Fund will distribute $250,000 annually in grants of $5,000 to $25,000. It will support programs delivered through Military Family Resource Centres (MFRCs) that focus on improving access to mental health care on Canadian Forces Bases across the country. Bell and True Patriot Love are sharing the cost of the $1 million program equally.

"Bell Let's Talk is proud to partner with True Patriot Love in supporting members of the Canadian military and their families with this specialized program," said George Cope, President and CEO of Bell and BCE. "We all acknowledge the unique pressures and demands faced by military families, and the Fund will help ensure access to mental health support for those who need it, as close to home as possible."

"True Patriot Love is grateful for the leading role Bell has played in working to establish a funding mechanism to support mental health care for the Canadian Armed Forces community," said Bronwen Evans, Co-Founder and Managing Director of True Patriot Love. "Together we are committed to seeing positive change for those Canadians who dedicate so much of their lives to their country."

The call for funding applications runs from today, April 30^,through to June 28, 2013, and is open to all MFRCs across Canada working in partnership with local mental health groups. The True Patriot Love Foundation will manage and administer all aspects of the Fund.

"We have seen the real difference True Patriot Love is making in the lives of Canadian servicemen and women who have struggled as a result of their service to the country," said Mary Deacon, Chair of Bell Let's Talk. "We're very pleased to apply our experience in working with grassroots community groups through the Bell Let's Talk Community Fund to bring enhanced mental health support to military families in locations across the nation in partnership with True Patriot Love."

Bell and True Patriot Love will focus the fund on high-impact, community-level programming that meets the unique needs of each individual military base. The most effective way to achieve this is through MFRCs, which serve as a well-established focus through which community-based services and social supports can be provided. Many Canadian military families live on military bases in smaller, often remote communities.

The Bell Let's Talk initiative was launched in 2010 to drive action in mental health based on 4 pillars: Anti-stigma, care and access, research, and workplace best practices. To learn more about the largest-ever corporate commitment to Canadian mental health, please visit Bell.ca/LetsTalk.

At least 1 in 5 Canadians will struggle with a mental illness in their lifetimes - and 2 out of 3 won't seek the help they need because of the stigma surrounding the disease. Mental illness impacts everyone in some way, and it's a health issue that costs the Canadian economy over $51 billion every year. More than 500,000 people miss work each day because of a mental illness, and the impact in lost labour-market participation alone was an estimated $20.7 billion in 2012. With its initial $50-million commitment and three successful Bell Let's Talk Days since 2011, Bell has now committed a total of $62,043,289.30 to Canadian mental health.

About True Patriot Love:
True Patriot Love honours the sacrifices of members of the Canadian Forces, Veterans and their families by:

Stepping in where government is unable to fund programs that support their physical, mental and social wellbeing no matter where they are posted in Canada or abroad
Promoting their special skills and capabilities resulting from their unique conditions of service
Being a channel for everyday Canadians, corporations and philanthropists to express their appreciation and patriotism

Over the past three years, True Patriot Love was honoured to have raised over $14 million to fund a variety of military programs, charities and causes, when and where it is needed most. Our three key areas of support are Family Health and Support, Physical Health and Rehabilitation, and Mental Health and Well-Being.
Please visit www.truepatriotlovefoundation.com for more information.

About Bell
Bell is Canada's largest communications company, providing consumers and business with solutions to all their communications needs. Bell Media is Canada's premier multimedia company with leading assets in television, radio and digital media. Bell is wholly owned by BCE Inc. (TSX, NYSE: BCE). To learn more about Bell, please visit Bell.ca.

SOURCE: Bell Canada

/R E P E A T -- Media advisory - Bell and True Patriot Love Foundation to announce new support for military families/

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 06:31:18 -0400

OTTAWA, April 29, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - Bell and the True Patriot Love Foundation will announce a new initiative to support mental health among members of the Canadian military and their families. The announcement will take place at 8:30 am on Tuesday April, 30, 2013 in Ottawa.

What:	Bell and True Patriot Love announce major commitment to the mental health of Canada's military families

Who:	The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence George Cope, President and Chief Executive Officer, Bell Bronwen Evans, Co-Founder & Managing Director, True Patriot Love

When:	Tuesday, April 30, 2013 Event starts at 8:30 am ET

Where:	Charles Lynch Press Conference Room Centre Block, Parliament Hill Ottawa

About True Patriot Love
True Patriot Love honours the sacrifices of members of the Canadian Forces, Veterans and their families by:

Stepping in where government is unable to fund programs that support their physical, mental and social wellbeing no matter where they are posted in Canada or abroad
Promoting their special skills and capabilities resulting from their unique conditions of service
Being a channel for everyday Canadians, corporations and philanthropists to express their appreciation and patriotism

Please visit www.truepatriotlovefoundation.com for more information

About Bell Let's Talk
The Bell Let's Talk mental health initiative is a national charitable and awareness program promoting mental health across Canada with the Bell Let's Talk Day anti-stigma campaign and significant Bell funding of community care and access, research, and workplace initiatives. To learn more, please visit Bell.ca/LetsTalk.

SOURCE: Bell Canada

Media advisory - Bell and True Patriot Love Foundation to announce new support for military families

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 13:31:28 -0400

What:	Bell and True Patriot Love announce major commitment to the mental health of Canada's military families

Who:	The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence George Cope, President and Chief Executive Officer, Bell Bronwen Evans, Co-Founder & Managing Director, True Patriot Love

When:	Tuesday, April 30, 2013 Event starts at 8:30 am ET

Where:	Charles Lynch Press Conference Room Centre Block, Parliament Hill Ottawa

About True Patriot Love
True Patriot Love honours the sacrifices of members of the Canadian Forces, Veterans and their families by:

Stepping in where government is unable to fund programs that support their physical, mental and social wellbeing no matter where they are posted in Canada or abroad
Promoting their special skills and capabilities resulting from their unique conditions of service
Being a channel for everyday Canadians, corporations and philanthropists to express their appreciation and patriotism

Please visit www.truepatriotlovefoundation.com for more information

SOURCE: Bell Canada

Bell and Bell Aliant taking the conversation on the road - Clara's Big Ride for Bell Let's Talk

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 12:36:19 -0400

HALIFAX, April 25, 2013 /CNW/ - Bell Aliant, in partnership with Bell, today announced Clara's Big Ride for Bell Let's Talk, a national bicycle tour by Clara Hughes in support of mental health. The tour begins in March of 2014 and will span more than 100 days, 12,000 kilometres and every province and territory of Canada ending in Ottawa on Canada Day, 2014. Bell Aliant will be working with local community organizations to promote Clara's Big Ride and encourage more conversations about mental health.

Bell Let's Talk national spokesperson and six-time Olympian Clara Hughes will ride across the country, inviting people to join the mental health discussion, while sharing her own story of a struggle with depression during her athletic career.

"I'm incredibly excited about bringing even more Canadians into the Bell Let's Talk conversation - the schools, community groups and hometown champions that are really moving mental health forward," said Clara. "I'm looking forward to meeting people across Canada, hearing about their challenges and successes, sharing our stories and embracing new ideas and opportunities in mental health. I can't think of a better way to meet people, from the cities to the coasts to Canada's North, than getting on my bike and taking to the roads of this beautiful country."

"This tremendous initiative gives us an opportunity to build on the progress we have made in the fight against the stigma surrounding mental illness, and accelerate that progress in the communities we serve," said Karen Sheriff, Bell Aliant President and CEO. "Clara's Big Ride will build on the 2013 success of Bell Let's Talk Day and rally Canadians to take the conversation about mental health to the next level."

Clara's Big Ride for Bell Let's Talk is supported by Canada's leading mental health organizations. Bell Let's Talk is also proud to announce BMO, Canadian Tire, Samsung and CTV as the first National Partners of Clara's Big Ride for Bell Let's Talk.

The Ride will be a catalyst for new events, partnerships and fundraising where every dollar stays in the community for local mental health initiatives. The ride will reach more than 60 per cent of the population, including all three Northern Territories. Extensive plans are already underway to engage with local, regional and national organizations to create hundreds of community events.

Making a difference includes bringing the next generation into the conversation. Schools across the nation will have the opportunity to talk directly with Clara about new ideas to grow the conversation about mental health in their own communities. The Ride will also work with communities to develop their own Bell Let's Talk events, an unprecedented opportunity for local mental health groups to raise funds and awareness for their programs.

Share in the ride at Bell.ca/ClarasBigRide

Every Canadian can participate in Clara's Big Ride for Bell Let's Talk through community events and social media. For more information, please visit Bell.ca/ClarasBigRide or follow the latest news on Facebook at Facebook.com/BellLetsTalk or on Twitter at @Bell_LetsTalk.

Clara's Big Ride builds on the growing success of Bell Let's Talk Day when Clara led millions in talking about mental illness to end the stigma resulting in a total of 96,266,266 calls, texts, tweets and Facebook shares by Canadians. This translated into an additional $4,813,313.30 in funding for mental health programs. Bell has now committed a total of $62,043,289.30 to Canadian mental health.

The largest-ever corporate commitment to Canadian mental health, the Bell Let's Talk initiative was launched in 2010 to drive action in mental health based on 4 pillars: Anti-stigma, care and access, research, and workplace best practices. To learn more about Bell Let's Talk, please visit Bell.ca/LetsTalk.

About Bell Aliant
Bell Aliant (TSX: BA) is one of North America's largest regional communications providers and the first company in Canada to cover an entire city with fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) technology with its FibreOP services. Through its operating entities, it serves customers in six Canadian provinces with innovative information, communication and technology services including voice, data, Internet, video and value-added business solutions. Bell Aliant's employees deliver the highest quality customer service, choice and convenience.

SOURCE: BELL ALIANT INC.

Clara's Big Ride for Bell Let's Talk: A journey around Canada to grow the mental health conversation like never before

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 11:36:17 -0400

Six-time Olympian Clara Hughes to ride her bike coast to coast to coast to talk about mental health with schools and community organizations in every province and territory
Starting next March 2014, Clara's Big Ride for Bell Let's Talk will span more than 100 days and 12,000 kilometres - concluding in Ottawa on Canada Day 2014
Clara's Big Ride for Bell Let's Talk is supported by leading mental health organizations and National Partners BMO, Canadian Tire, Samsung and CTV

GATINEAU, QC, April 25, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - Bell today announced Clara's Big Ride for Bell Let's Talk, a national bicycle tour by Clara Hughes in support of mental health that begins in March 2014 and spans more than 100 days, 12,000 kilometres and every province and territory of Canada. The ride culminates on Canada Day, July 1 2014, in Ottawa.

Canada's six-time Olympic cycling and speed-skating medallist and national spokesperson for the Bell Let's Talk mental health initiative, Clara will invite people in communities around the country to the mental health discussion, sharing her own story of a struggle with depression during her athletic career.

"Mental health and wellness requires the combined efforts of governments, communities, corporations and individuals," said Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of Health. "We commend Bell Canada and Clara Hughes for their commitment to engaging Canadians in conversations and helping to create communities of compassion and awareness."

"Clara's Big Ride for Bell Let's Talk will grow the conversation about mental health like never before while highlighting community mental health organizations in every part of Canada," said George Cope, President and CEO of Bell and BCE Inc. "We've made significant strides in the fight against the stigma with Bell Let's Talk Day and major progress in funding new care, research and workplace initiatives. As a tireless champion of mental health, Clara is building on that momentum and taking the cause to a whole new level."

Clara's Big Ride for Bell Let's Talk is supported by Canada's leading mental health organizations, including Agir contre la maladie mentale (AMI-Québec), Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health, Canadian Mental Health Association, and Fondation des maladies mentales. Bell Let's Talk is also proud to announce BMO, Canadian Tire, Samsung and CTV as the first National Partners of Clara's Big Ride for Bell Let's Talk.

The Ride will be a catalyst for new events, partnerships and fundraising - where every dollar stays in the community for local mental health initiatives. It will reach more than 60% of the Canadian population, including all three Northern territories. Plans are underway to engage with local, regional and national organizations to create hundreds of community events.

"The response of Canadians to the Bell Let's Talk call to end the stigma of mental illness has been truly inspiring. And we've learned through the annual Bell Let's Talk Community Fund, which supports new local mental health projects each year, that amazing work is being undertaken at the grassroots level in every region of Canada," said Mary Deacon, Chair of Bell Let's Talk. "Clara's Big Ride for Bell Let's Talk will broaden the conversation, spark new fundraising, awareness and engagement opportunities, and take us closer to ending the stigma with every kilometre Clara rides."

"Clara's Big Ride for Bell Let's Talk will inspire Canadians to come together in a combined effort to address all mental illnesses," said Dave Gallson, Co-Chair of the Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health. "The truly inspiring nature of this campaign is that it is community focused and will involve all citizens, young and old, regardless of where they live or work. We congratulate everyone involved and encourage all Canadians to follow the Ride, participate in community events, and help make this a huge success."

Making a difference includes bringing the next generation into the mental health conversation. Schools across the nation will have the opportunity to discuss with Clara new ideas to grow the conversation in their own communities. The Ride will also work with communities to develop their own Bell Let's Talk events, an unprecedented opportunity for local mental health groups to raise funds and awareness for their programs that are making a profoundly important difference in the lives of people in their communities.

Share in the ride at Bell.ca/ClarasBigRide
Every Canadian can participate in Clara's Big Ride for Bell Let's Talk through community events and social media. For more information, please visit Bell.ca/ClarasBigRide or follow the latest Ride news on Facebook at Facebook.com/BellLetsTalk or on Twitter at @Bell_LetsTalk.

The Ride builds on the growing success of Bell Let's Talk Day, an annual event led by Clara that invites Canadians to join the conversation about mental illness, reducing the stigma while growing Bell's funding of mental health. Bell donates 5 cents to mental health for every text and long-distance call by Bell and Bell Aliant customers and every tweet and Facebook share of the Bell Let's Talk message.

This year, Canadians sent a total of 96.266.266 messages - resulting in an additional $4,813,313.30 in Bell funding for mental health. With its initial $50-million commitment and three successful Bell Let's Talk Days since 2011, Bell has now committed a total of $62,043,289.30 to Canadian mental health.

About Bell
Bell is Canada's largest communications company, providing consumers and business with solutions to all their communications needs. Bell Media is Canada's premier multimedia company with leading assets in television, radio and digital media. Bell is wholly owned by BCE Inc. (TSX, NYSE: BCE). To learn more about Bell, please visit Bell.ca.

Leading Canadians comment on Clara's Big Ride for Bell Let's Talk

"By reaching out and talking to Canadians in communities across the country, Clara and Bell Let's Talk continue to be proactive in ending the stigma of mental illness. Their hard work, dedication, and determination continue to spread the word, building on their progress. Let's continue to keep talking!"
Laureen Harper

"Bell continues to demonstrate an unprecedented commitment to advancing the cause of mental health in Canada. As someone who has been involved in raising awareness, engaging Canadians and building understanding about this issue for over 20 years, I have never seen anything of this nature or on this scale. Congratulations to Clara and Bell for engaging with Canadians and communities in an authentic, unique and grassroots way."
Michael Wilson, P.C., C.C.

"Clara Hughes is a Difference Maker who is working to help build an accessible and inclusive Canada with Clara's Big Ride for Bell Let's Talk. Clara is an outstanding athlete, a great person, and someone who understands that she has been able to achieve her hopes and dreams because of the people who have supported her, and now she's paying it forward with Bell to make a difference."
Rick Hansen, Rick Hansen Foundation

"On behalf of the Canadian Olympic Committee I congratulate Clara Hughes on her unparalleled leadership and service to community, One of the defining characteristics of Bell Canada, under the leadership of George Cope, is the passion and dedication to advancing the conversation on mental health in our country."
Marcel Aubut, President of the Canadian Olympic Committee

"As spokesperson for Bell Let's Talk Day, I would like to thank Clara Hughes for her dedicated work in raising awareness about mental health. I wish her every success for the 2014 Clara's Big Ride for Bell Let's Talk event. Go Clara!"
Stefie Shock, Spokesperson, Bell Let's Talk

"Clara is not only a great Olympian and a great Canadian, she's a great person. We have a proud history in this country of individuals whose journeys across Canada have inspired the nation and raised awareness and hope. Please join Clara on this odyssey. Let's bike, walk and most importantly talk about mental illness and mental health - to acknowledge the reality, to fight the stigma, and to give hope for a brighter future for the 1 in 5 Canadians every year who experience mental illness."
David S. Goldbloom, MD, FRCPC, Chair, Mental Health Commission of Canada

"The Mental Health Strategy for Canada, launched last May by the Mental Health Commission of Canada, marks a turning point in the conversation about mental health problems and illness. The Bell Let's Talk initiative is playing an important role, with its focus on reducing stigma and promoting recovery for people living with mental illness and their families across Canada. We look forward to working together with Bell to advance shared goals through Clara's Big Ride for Bell Let's Talk."
Louise Bradley, President and CEO, Mental Health Commission of Canada

"CMHA commends Bell and Clara Hughes for this initiative to improve Canadians' understanding of mental health and mental illness and reduce discrimination and stigma. Clara's Big Ride for Bell Let's Talk will help raise the profile of mental health in communities across Canada and stimulate new conversations and partnerships. All Canadians, including those with mental health problems, will benefit from the improved knowledge and attitudes arising from the increased profile on mental health and the programs and services available."
Peter Coleridge, National Chief Executive Officer, Canadian Mental Health Association

"Clara's Big Ride for Bell Let's Talk is another initiative that ensures the conversation around mental illness and mental health continues. Quebec is excited to welcome Clara Hughes! This tour will help to make sure that mental illness is brought to - and remains - at the center of our collective attention and action, and that people with mental illness are recognized for their gifts and abilities, not just for their disabilities."
Ella Amir, Executive Director, AMI-Québec

"We strongly believe through the Samsung Hope for Children program that there is a need to bring attention to childhood health, which is why we are proud to play a part in 'Clara's Big Ride', "Samsung Canada actively strives to serve as a generous corporate citizen and it is our hope that through sponsorship such as 'Bell Let's Talk' that we are able to activate awareness for mental health across Canada."
HT Kim, President and CEO, Samsung Canada

"We are very proud to support Clara in her tireless work to fight the stigmas associated with mental illness. The Big Ride for Bell Let's Talk is more important than ever as it encourages those who need help to seek it. Improving the conversation about mental illness is important to all of us at BMO, in our workplace and our communities."
Tom Milroy, CEO, BMO Capital Markets

"As a Canadian company deeply rooted in communities across the country, Canadian Tire is committed to empowering youth through the power of sport. We are proud to join Clara Hughes and Bell Canada in this incredible initiative, which will promote the important role fitness and activity can play in a healthy and balanced lifestyle."
Stephen Wetmore, President and CEO, Canadian Tire

"What an honour for BUILT Network Moncton and community stakeholders to participate with Clara Hughes en route through New Brunswick. Clara's presence will bring a heightened awareness about depression and her life experience. This will encourage and motivate countless others to come forward and share their stories."
Cynthia Black, Executive Director, BUILT Network Moncton, Inc.

"As an individual living with mental health issues representing a consumer-led organization, I am thrilled at the promise of this tour. Clara's Big Ride for Bell Let's Talk will offer the opportunity to unite the entire nation as we all strive for stigma-free communities while creating safe spaces for individuals to start a conversation. It is only when we open up and say 'Let's Talk' do we destroy the silence."
Paula Corcoran, Provincial Executive Director (Acting), Consumers' Health Awareness Network Newfoundland And Labrador (CHANNAL)

"This tremendous initiative gives us an opportunity to build on the progress we have made in the fight against the stigma surrounding mental illness, and accelerate that progress in the communities we serve. Clara's Big Ride will build on the 2013 success of Bell Let's Talk Day and rally Canadians to take the conversation about mental health to the next level."
Karen Sheriff, President and CEO, Bell Aliant

"Clara's Big Ride for Bell Let's Talk will connect Canadians across the country in support of mental health. I am proud that there is an opportunity for First Nation, Inuit and Métis communities to join this truly Canadian grassroots campaign."
Bill Mussell, Chair, Native Mental Health Association

Clara Hughes' commitment to mental health serves as an inspiration to all Canadians. Northwestel applauds Clara's effort to bring the conversation to the smallest and most remote communities in our vast country and thank her for including the north on her tour. Her leadership and dedication to raising awareness about mental health are a huge undertaking and we have no doubt that she will continue to make us proud to be Canadian as she has done for decades.
Paul Flaherty, President & CEO Northwestel

"As Clara's friend and teammate, I'd like to applaud her efforts and thank her partners at Bell for once again stepping up for those facing mental health issues. I'm certain the trip will ignite many conversations and leave legacies in each and every stop. Clara is a true Champion in every sense of the word, and I look forward to joining her, for a few days, on this incredible journey."
Adam van Koeverden, World and Olympic Champion kayaker.

"Mental health awareness is a very personal and important cause to both me and my family. Events like Clara's Big Ride for Bell Let's Talk will continue to bring much-needed attention to this cause and I hope it will inspire more people to talk openly about their own mental wellness. Clara has been a great leader for the cause and I wish her great success for her upcoming ride across Canada."
Daniel Alfredsson, Captain, Ottawa Senators

"The Canadian Nurses Association is delighted to be a part of Clara's Big Ride for Bell Let's Talk," said Barb Mildon, Canadian Nurses Association president. "Nurses are committed to promoting mental health and wellness across the lifespan and wherever Canadians live, learn, work and play. We congratulate Bell for their leadership and for understanding that nothing less than true collaboration across sectors and communities will generate awareness, reduce stigma and improve the health of those living with mental illness and their families."
Barb Mildon, President, Canadian Nurses Association.

"In building relationships with national and community organizations focussed on mental health, Bell is demonstrating the leadership necessary to not only raise awareness but to leave lasting legacies from coast to coast to coast in Canada"
Fred Phelps MSW, RSW, Executive Director, Canadian Association of Social Workers

Image with caption: "Clara Hughes, Six-Time Canadian Olympian and National Spokesperson for Bell Let's Talk at the launch of Clara's Big Ride for Bell Let's Talk announced today at the Canadian Museum of Civilization in Gatineau. (CNW Group/Bell Canada)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20130425_C8699_PHOTO_EN_26007.jpg

SOURCE: Bell Canada

/R E P E A T -- Media advisory - Bell to announce major national mental health event with Clara Hughes/

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 08:01:26 -0400

MONTREAL, April 22, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - Building on the success of Bell Let's Talk Day 2013, Bell will announce a major national event with Clara Hughes to support Canadian mental health. The announcement will take place at 11:30 am ET on Thursday April 25, 2013 at the Museum of Civilization in Gatineau, Québec.

What:	Bell announces major national event for Canadian mental health

Who:	Clara Hughes, Bell Let's Talk national spokesperson and six-time Olympian
	The Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of Health
	George Cope, President and Chief Executive Officer, Bell
	Stephanie Richardson, DIFD
	Leading mental health organizations and corporate supporters

When:	Thursday, April 25
	Registration starts at 11:00 am ET
	Event starts at 11:30 am ET

Where:	Museum of Civilization
	Riverview Salon
	100 Laurier Street
	Gatineau, Québec

Photos:	Photo opportunity #1 at 12 noon ET- Museum of Civilization
	Photo opportunity #2 at approximately 12:30 ET - Parliament Hill - Top of the stairs, below the Peace Tower

Live webcast
Media unable to attend can follow the announcement via a live webcast at:
BCE.ca/investors/investorevents/all/show/join-us-for-a-big-announcement
on Thursday, April 25 at 11:30 am ET.

Add to Outlook Calendar
Click here to add this event to your Outlook Calendar.

SOURCE: Bell Canada

FibreOP gets even faster; Bell Aliant sets pace for the future with another speed boost

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 08:51:17 -0400

Company turns up speeds for existing FibreOP customers automatically and for free.

HALIFAX, April 23, 2013 /CNW/ - Bell Aliant Inc. (TSX: BA) once again boosts residential FibreOP^TM Internet speeds. Today the region's fastest Internet service got faster with a surprise automatic speed increase. Now people can do the things they love - surfing, watching, playing, listening and sharing - faster than ever before. FibreOP's flexibility and built-in innovation has allowed three speed increases for customers since last year.

FibreOP offers Atlantic Canada's fastest Internet with download speeds of up to 250 Mbps and upload speeds of up to 30 Mbps. The FibreOP 20/15 Mbps tier increased to 50/30 Mbps. The 50/30 Mbps tier is now 80/30 Mbps and the 80/30 Mbps package increased to 175/30 Mbps. Existing customers have already been upgraded automatically and for free.

"Offering the fastest Internet isn't just about bragging rights. It's about taking the technology to the next level. There's nothing but open road ahead of us," said Andre LeBlanc, vice president, residential markets, Bell Aliant. "Today FibreOP customers have even faster Internet - speeds that let them do incredible things. And once they've experienced the direct fibre-to-the-home difference, they'll never want to go back."

Faster download and upload speeds make a big difference:

For music lovers: The Beatles White Album can be downloaded in less than nine seconds. Or the entire Rolling Stones discography in less than six minutes.
For gamers: FIFA 2013 for PC means a 10.5-minute download.
For movie-lovers: Download The Matrix trilogy in less than ten minutes or Forrest Gump in less than five minutes.
For social media users: Download one million tweets in 14 seconds, upload 100 Facebook photos in 20 seconds or upload 2,000 Instagram photos in less than seven minutes.
For the history, current affairs and geography buffs, 100 years of National Geographic maps could be available in less than 4.5 minutes, or download 100 CBC Radio 3 podcasts in less than seven minutes, or the Top 100 TED Talks in 11.5 minutes.

Bell Aliant's unstoppable fibre-to-the-home network continues to set the pace in Atlantic Canada.More than 100,000 customers already enjoy the awesome capabilities and features of FibreOP: popular social TV apps like Facebook, Twitter and The Weather Network app, unlimited downloads and uploads with no data caps and Wi-Fi signal strength to make it all possible.

The advantage of a fibre-to-the-home network is how it continues to expand to meet the growing communications needs of Canadian households. File sharing, uploading and video streaming have become commonplace and demand for speed and bandwidth will only increase as the number of people online and Wi-Fi enabled devices-per-household grows. FibreOP is designed to grow with those demands. More than 650,000 homes and businesses have access to the fastest Internet on the market- and by the end of 2013, that figure will be 800,000.

Bell Aliant kicked off the speed boost with a social media contest. FibreOP in Fiveencourages Bell Aliant's nearly 25,000 Facebook fans to imagine the Internet of the future. The winner will be chosen from those who submitted their futuristic ideas of how fast Internet will help them realize their dreams faster. The winner will be awarded a trip for two to Grand Prix weekend in Montreal.

SOURCE: BELL ALIANT INC.

Bell congratulates A. Jean de Grandpré, Founding Director and Chairman Emeritus of BCE Inc., for the Québec Employers Council 2013 Prix de carrière

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 15:31:16 -0400

MONTREAL, April 22, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - Bell is pleased to recognize Mr. Albert Jean de Grandpré, Founding Director and Chairman Emeritus of BCE Inc., for the 2013 Prix de carrière awarded to him by the Québec Employers Council, honouring him for his outstanding contribution to Québec society.

"On behalf of all members of the Bell team, I congratulate our colleague Jean de Grandpré on this prestigious honour," said George Cope, President and Chief Executive Officer of BCE Inc. and Bell. "This recognition by one of Québec's leading business organizations underscores M. de Grandpré's exceptional contribution to Québec and Canadian society, especially his role leading BCE forward."

Mr. de Grandpré joined Bell in 1966 as the company's General Counsel, and was a progressively senior leader at the company. In 1976, he was appointed Bell's Board Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. Under his leadership, Bell built its telecommunications leadership position with positive growth across its many business segments. Mr. de Grandpré led the formation and growth of Bell Canada Enterprises (BCE), which is now a $20 billion Québec-based company delivering industry-leading employee, infrastructure, R&D and community investment.

A widely respected executive throughout his career, Mr. de Grandpré was appointed to a significant number of advisory and governing board positions at major Canadian and international corporations.

Mr. de Grandpré is a Companion of the Order of Canada and is Chancellor Emeritus of McGill University, a lifetime member of the Canadian Bar Association, member Emeritus of the Association of the Canada General Counsels, and a member of the Bar of Québec.

Born in Montréal in 1921, Mr. de Grandpré was educated at Collège Jean-de-Brébeuf and McGill University. In 1943, he graduated with a Bachelor of Civil Law and as a Faculty of Law gold medalist. Mr. de Grandpré has also received honorary doctorates from the University of Québec, McGill University, Université de Montréal, University of Ottawa and Bishop's University.

This is the 31^st straight year the Prix de carrière has been awarded to an individual of distinction.
The Québec Employers Council brings together many of Québec's largest companies and the vast majority of sector-based employers' groups, making it Québec's sole employer federation. For more information, please visit www.cpq.qc.ca

About Bell
Bell is Canada's largest communications company, providing consumers and business with solutions to all their communications needs: Bell Media is Canada's premier multimedia company with leading assets in television, radio and digital media, including CTV, Canada's #1 television network, and the country's most-watched specialty channels. For more information, please visit Bell.ca.

Image with caption: "Jean de Grandpré, Founding Director and Chairman Emeritus of BCE Inc. (1983). (CNW Group/Bell Canada)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20130422_C7549_PHOTO_EN_25857.jpg

Image with caption: "Jean de Grandpré, Founding Director and Chairman Emeritus of BCE Inc. (1988). (CNW Group/Bell Canada)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20130422_C7549_PHOTO_EN_25855.jpg

SOURCE: Bell Canada

Media advisory - Bell to announce major national mental health event with Clara Hughes

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 10:01:13 -0400

What:	Bell announces major national event for Canadian mental health

Who:	Clara Hughes, Bell Let's Talk national spokesperson and six-time Olympian
	The Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of Health
	George Cope, President and Chief Executive Officer, Bell
	Stephanie Richardson, DIFD
	Leading mental health organizations and corporate supporters

When:	Thursday, April 25
	Registration starts at 11:00 am ET
	Event starts at 11:30 am ET

Where:	Museum of Civilization
	Riverview Salon
	100 Laurier Street
	Gatineau, Québec

Photos:	Photo opportunity #1 at 12 noon ET- Museum of Civilization
	Photo opportunity #2 at approximately 12:30 ET - Eternal Flame at Parliament Hill

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SOURCE: Bell Canada

Canadian Mental Health Association marks Earth Day with support from Bell Let's Talk

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 08:01:16 -0400

CMHA to receive proceeds from national Bell mobile phone recycling program

OTTAWA, April 22, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) is pleased to announce a new way for Canadians to promote mental health while helping the environment - by recycling mobile phones, batteries and accessories through the Bell Blue Box program.

"CMHA is a proud partner of the Bell Let's Talk mental health initiative and we're grateful for this commitment from Bell to support our anti-stigma and mental health education programs," said Peter Coleridge, National CEO, CMHA. "Bell continues to lead the way for corporate Canada with creative ways to invest in improving Canadians' understanding of mental health and mental illness."

CMHA has identified the elimination of stigma and discrimination experienced by people with mental illness as one of its top priority areas. Most people who suffer won't seek help because of the fear and misunderstanding surrounding mental illness.

Net proceeds from phones recycled through the Bell Blue Box program will help fund CMHA's efforts. The more phones recycled through the Bell program, the greater the benefit to Canadians suffering from mental illness, a serious national health concern that will impact 1 in 5 Canadians directly and everyone in some way. Half a million Canadians miss work each day because of a mental health issue, and the overall impact on the national economy surpasses $51 billion each year.

"Bell Let's Talk is proud that Bell's green leadership can support the efforts of the CMHA. Tackling the stigma is the primary step in helping those who struggle get the treatment and support they need," said Mary Deacon, Chair of the Bell Let's Talk initiative. "We invite Canadians to help move mental health forward as they also help reduce the impact on the environment."

Part of the Canadian Wireless Telecommunications Association's (CWTA) Recycle My Cell program, Bell Blue Box has been recognized by the Retail Council of Canada and Les Phénix de l'environnement. It was also a factor in Bell being named Canada's greenest company by Newsweek magazine in 2012. The program has recovered over 1.2 million phones since 2003, as well as 110 tonnes of batteries and accessories.

Used mobile phones from all manufacturers, accessories and batteries can be returned to Bell Stores and participating The Source locations.

Before returning a phone, please erase any personal information from your device, including text messages, images and videos, contacts and personal files.

To learn more about our Bell Blue Box program, please visit Bell.ca/BellBlueBox.

About the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA)
Founded in 1918, the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) is one of Canada's oldest not-for-profit organizations. With more than 10,000 staff and volunteers in hundreds of communities across Canada, CMHA provides vital services and support to well over half a million Canadians every year. As the nation-wide leader and champion for mental health, CMHA facilitates access to the resources people require to maintain and improve mental health and community integration, build resilience and support recovery from mental illness. Learn more at: www.cmha.ca.

The Bell Mental Health Initiative is a multi-year charitable program that promotes mental health across Canada via the Bell Let's Talk Day anti-stigma campaign and support for community care, research and workplace best practices. To learn more, please visit Bell.ca/LetsTalk.

SOURCE: Bell Canada

Bell Mobile TV launches live and on-demand CBC and Radio-Canada programming

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 20:58:37 -0400

MONTRÉAL, April 19, 2013 – Bell today announced that CBC and Radio-Canada TV programming is now live and on-demand with Bell Mobile TV, in addition to the CBC News Network and RDI news content already available.

“CBC and Radio-Canada join the growing range of world-class content available in English and French on Bell Mobile TV,” said Wade Oosterman, President of Bell Mobility and Bell’s Chief Brand Officer. “Building Canada’s leading mobile TV service is part of Bell’s commitment to make the best content available across every screen.”

Included in popular rate plans or as a standalone feature for $5 a month for 10 hours of usage, Bell Mobile TV offers access to more than 30 channels with news, entertainment and children’s programming from brands such as ATN, BNN, Bloomberg, CTV, Juicebox, MTV Canada, Treehouse and YTV, and sports content from TSN, RDS and the NHL, NBA and NFL.

For more information, please visit Bell.ca/MobileTV.

About Bell

Bell is Canada's largest communications company, providing consumers and business with solutions to all their communications needs: Bell Media is Canada's premier multimedia company with leading assets in television, radio and digital media, including CTV, Canada's #1 television network, and the country's most-watched specialty channels. For more information, please visit Bell.ca.

For more information, please contact:

Jason Laszlo
Bell Media Relations
1-855-614-6602
jason.laszlo@bell.ca
@Bell_News

Astral and Bell Media reply to CRTC submissions

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 10:06:13 -0400

Uniting Astral and Bell Media strengthens Canadian broadcasting and enhances competition
Companies looking forward to CRTC hearing that begins May 6 in Montréal
Learn more about the benefits of the transaction at CanadiansDeserveMore.ca

MONTREAL, April 17, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - Astral Media Inc. (Astral) and BCE Inc. (Bell) today announced they have replied to interventions filed with the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC), part of the CRTC's process to review the proposed transaction to unite Astral and Bell Media.

"Astral and Bell Media are happy to present our plan to deliver great new TV, radio and film content across all platforms and to enhance competition in a rapidly evolving broadcasting system," said Kevin Crull, President of Bell Media. "We appreciate the letters of support received from Canadian consumers, creators, and broadcast and cable companies, and we acknowledge those who question the transaction. We believe our plan fully addresses their concerns, and we look forward to detailing the benefits of the transaction during the CRTC's public hearing in May."

"Astral is proud of our long history of creating world-class content and world-class opportunities here in Québec and across Canada," said Jacques Parisien, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Astral. "By joining with Bell Media, we'll build on that proud legacy, ensuring consumers and creators benefit from accelerated investment and innovation in new programming, especially in the French-language media marketplace."

Under both an agreement with the Competition Bureau and their amended application to the CRTC, Astral and Bell Media will sell several Astral TV services. The divestitures include 100% of Astral's English-language specialty TV services and 50% of its French-language specialty TV.

After selling a total of 11 Astral TV services, Bell Media would retain 8 Astral pay and specialty TV services - the French-language Super Écran, Cinépop, Canal Vie, Canal D, VRAK TV, and Ztélé, and English-language services The Movie Network, which includes HBO Canada, and TMN Encore.

"A primary focus for Bell Media is growth in Québec and the French-language media marketplace. Even after the sale of half of Astral's French-language specialty TV services, Bell Media would increase its viewing share in this market to 22.6% - still less than the 31% viewing share enjoyed by Québecor, but a significant enhancement to market competition nevertheless," said Mr. Crull. "All of these remaining English and French-language TV services are part of the Astral and Bell Media plan to increase consumer choice and service innovation in Canadian media."

The principal opposition to Astral joining with Bell Media has come from some cable and telecom companies that compete with Bell, specifically because Astral and Bell Media are eager to inject fresh ideas, significant new investment, and more competition into Canadian media, especially in Québec.

These competitors, many of them large vertically integrated corporations, claim Astral and Bell Media will somehow restrict their access to content - despite the fact that both Astral and Bell Media already have long-term distribution and affiliation agreements in place with them. Bell Media is also respectful of and compliant with the CRTC's rigorous Vertical Integration rules, which govern the relationship between broadcasters and distributors.

Recognizing the rapidly changing competitive landscape in a multi-platform, cross-border broadcasting universe, Bell Media was formed in 2011 to compete both with Canada's established vertically integrated cable/broadcast companies and with fast-growing international broadcasters such as Netflix and Google. Bell Media's plan to join with Astral was originally announced on March 16, 2012. After the CRTC's rejection of Astral and Bell Media's original application on October 18, 2012, the two companies filed a new application addressing the CRTC's concerns on November 19, later amended to reflect terms in the March 4, 2013 consent agreement between Bell and the Competition Bureau.

Bell Media has also committed to a tangible benefits package of $174.64 million to develop and promote new French and English language TV, radio and film content, support emerging Canadian musical talent, and enable new media training and consumer participation initiatives in the Canadian broadcasting industry.

Bell Media will also retain Astral's 2 rural over-the-air TV stations in British Columbia, CJDC in Dawson Creek and CFTK in Terrace, and Astral's interest in the Viewer's Choice Canada pay-per-view service. Astral and Bell Media have committed to keeping all local TV stations open and to maintaining their local programming.

Consistent with the CRTC's policy on radio ownership, Bell is divesting 10 English-language radio stations. Because of the strong desire expressed by Montréal sports fans to retain TSN Radio 690 as an English-language sports station, Bell Media has requested permission to continue to operate TSN 690 as an English-language sports radio station.

Due to the need for regulatory approvals, Astral and Bell on November 19, 2012 extended the outside date for closing the transaction to June 1, 2013, with both Astral and Bell having the right to postpone it further to July 31, 2013.

CanadiansDeserveMore.ca
You can learn more about Astral and Bell Media at CanadiansDeserveMore.ca, the information portal for the transaction. The updated website outlines the benefits of a united Astral and Bell Media for consumers and the broadcast industry, with interactive features allowing visitors to view support for the transaction and get answers to questions about the proposal.

About Astral
Founded in 1961, Astral Media Inc. (TSX: ACM.A/ACM.B) is one of Canada's largest media companies. It operates several media properties - pay and specialty television, radio, out-of-home advertising, and digital - that are among the most popular in the country. Astral plays a central role in community life across the country by offering diverse, rich, and vibrant programming that meets the tastes and needs of consumers and advertisers alike. To learn more about Astral, please visit Astral.com.

About Bell
Headquartered in Montréal since its founding in 1880, Bell is Canada's largest communications company, providing consumers and business with solutions to all their communications needs. Bell Media is Canada's premier multimedia company with leading assets in television, radio and digital media. Bell is wholly owned by Montréal's BCE Inc. (TSX, NYSE: BCE). For more information, please visit Bell.ca.

Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements made in this news release, including, but not limited to, statements relating to the proposed acquisition by BCE Inc. of Astral Media Inc. and to the proposed sale of certain TV services and radio stations, certain benefits expected to result from the proposed transactions, BCE Inc.'s plans and objectives, and other statements that are not historical facts, are forward-looking. Forward-looking statements, by their very nature, are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties and are based on several assumptions which give rise to the possibility that actual results or events could differ materially from our expectations expressed in or implied by such forward-looking statements. As a result, we cannot guarantee that any forward-looking statement will materialize and you are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements.
The forward-looking statements contained in this news release describe our expectations at the date of this news release and, accordingly, are subject to change after such date. Except as may be required by Canadian securities laws, we do not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements contained in this news release, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Forward-looking statements are provided herein for the purpose of giving information about the proposed transactions referred to above and their expected impact. Readers are cautioned that such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The completion of the above-mentioned proposed transactions is subject to customary closing conditions, termination rights and other risks and uncertainties including, without limitation, regulatory approvals, including approval by the CRTC and, in the case of certain of the proposed dispositions, the Competition Bureau. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that the proposed transactions will occur, or that they will occur on the terms and conditions currently contemplated by this news release. The proposed transactions could be modified, restructured or terminated. There can also be no assurance that the benefits expected to result from the above-mentioned proposed transactions will be fully realized. For additional information with respect to certain of these and other assumptions and risks relating to the above-mentioned proposed transactions, please refer to BCE Inc.'s 2012 annual MD&A dated March 7, 2013, filed with the Canadian securities commissions (available at www.sedar.com) and filed, under Form 40-F, with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (available at www.sec.gov). These documents are also available on BCE Inc.'s website at www.bce.ca.

SOURCE: Bell Canada