Restructuring costs weigh on Q1 results at Bell Aliant

HALIFAX – Despite continued growth in its fibre-to-the-home product FibreOp, Bell Aliant reported a $14 million drop in first quarter profits.Net earnings of $69 million in the first quarter ended March 31, were down from $55 million in the same quarter in 2013. The decrease was driven by lower earnings in Bell Aliant GP, with lower EBITDA and increased restructuring costs compared to the same quarter a year earlier.Operating revenues of $676 million decreased 1.2% ($8 million) year-over-year as growth in Internet, TV and other data revenues was offset by declines in local, long distance, wireless and other revenues.Operating expenses dipped...