The federal government says Rogers Communications Inc. has to grant all wireless carriers access to its cellular network in core parts of Toronto’s downtown subway by October 3, 2023.

Making the announcement from Toronto’s City Hall Monday, Industry Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne said the deadline is part of new spectrum licence conditions, designed to bring cellphone and data services to the entire subway network by the end of 2026.

At this time, only Rogers and Freedom Mobile customers have access to the network.

Minister Champagne is giving mobile carriers, including rivals Telus and Bell, until December 20, 2023 to reach commercial agreements with Rogers about financial terms.

Ottawa says that if carriers fail to meet the conditions, it could take measures including fines or licence suspension.

Back in August, Rogers unexpectedly launched its 5G wireless service for its own customers in downtown subway stations and tunnels despite ongoing discussions with the government, drawing frustration from Bell and Telus.