Minister of Rural Economic Development Bernadette Jordan has today announced funding of $2 million to bring new or improved high-speed Internet access to northern Ontario’s rural communities, including Dubreuilville, Brunswick House First Nation, and Red Rock Indian Band.
In the federal government’s Budget 2019, the Government proposed investments of up to $6 billion for high-speed connectivity and committed to topping up Connect to Innovate as part of this funding. For those who aren’t familiar, through Connect to Innovate, the Government is extending high-speed Internet service to over 900 rural and remote communities across Canada.
Of the just over $2 million investment in high-speed Internet announced today, $1.3 million will come from the Connect to Innovate program, while $763,308 will come from Bell Canada.
“Connecting people and places is key to providing opportunities for all Canadians. Improving local roads and bridges and providing northern Ontarians with Internet connectivity will support the long-term success and prosperity of these communities,” said Jordan in a statement.
Similar funding was also announced earlier this month for bringing improved, high-speed internet access to Manitoba’s 16 rural communities.
This morning, Reuters reported Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his ruling Liberal party plans to include lower wireless and internet bills as part of its election promises, ahead of this fall’s election.
