Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada said on Friday both Rogers and Xplornet have been awarded $55 million to expand high-speed internet in New Brunswick.
The announcement was made by Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development, along with René Arseneault, Member of Parliament for Madawaska–Restigouche. The $55 million from the Universal Broadband Fund (UBF) will bring high-speed internet to close to 11,000 homes in rural, remote and Indigenous communities across the province, with more details to be announced in the coming months.
The federal government has a goal of bringing high-speed internet to 98% of Canadians by 2026.
“We need to close the connectivity gap and ensure that every nook and cranny of New Brunswick has access to reliable high-speed Internet,” said Hutchings in a statement.
Today’s announcement builds on the Government of Canada’s progress toward making sure that 98% of Canadians have access to high-speed Internet by 2026. As we work to rebuild from the pandemic, the Government of Canada will continue to make investments in infrastructure to build strong communities and a more competitive and resilient Canada for everyone.
“We know connectivity is essential to participate in the digital economy, education, and staying in touch with loved ones,” said Robert Dépatie, President and Chief Operating Officer, Home and Business, Rogers Communications, in a statement. “We are proud to be working alongside the Government of Canada to bring connectivity to more residents and businesses in New Brunswick.”
