Privatization costs eat in to Q3 profits at Bell Aliant

HALIFAX – Despite an uptick in operating revenue, Bell Aliant reported a $22 million drop in third quarter profits as its parent BCE continues in its efforts to take the company private.Net earnings of $59 million for the period ended September 30, 2014 were impacted by an increase in financial advisory, professional and consulting fees, and other costs associated with the privatization transactions, the company said. Operating revenues of $698 million increased 0.5% year-over-year, as growth in Internet, TV, other data, and wireless revenues was partially offset by declines in local, long distance, and other revenues.Operating expenses increased $7 million...