Ambulance Operators Plead Guilty to Conspiracy Charge Under the Competition Act

OTTAWA, January 23, 1995 — The Director of Investigation and Research of the Bureau of Competition Policy, George N. Addy, announced today that the Alberta Ambulance Operators' Association and three individuals have pleaded guilty in Alberta Court of Queen's Bench in Calgary to a charge that they conspired to lessen competition in the provision of ambulance services within Alberta. Chief Justice William Moore imposed a fine of $25,000 against the Association, and $5,000 against each of the three individuals, William Coghill, Andrew Moffat and Daniel`Osborne.

The offence related to the period from 1984 to 1991 and resulted from rules and activities of the Association which prevented or discouraged ambulance operators from entering into territories already being serviced by other members of the Association. The three individuals were all on the Executive of the Association during the period that the offence was committed.

"This case highlights that associations which generally play an important role in maintaining and improving industry and professional standards must be careful not to stray into activities which can bring them into conflict with the Competition Act," Mr. Addy said.

In addition to the fines, the Court also issued a comprehensive prohibition order designed to encourage competition within the industry.

Reference: Robert McCrone
819-953-7931