ST. JOHN’S – More than 1,500 households in 70 rural and remote communities in Newfoundland and Labrador will receive improved high-speed Internet thanks to a joint federal-provincial investment of nearly $40 million.
The funding was announced Tuesday by Seamus O’Regan, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, on behalf of ISED minister Navdeep Bains, and by provincial premier Dwight Ball.
Of the $39.97 million to be invested in Newfoundland and Labrador, $26.88 million will come from the federal government, largely through its Connect to Innovate program; $1.57 million will come from the government of Newfoundland and Labrador; and $11.52 million will come from “other contributors”, according to the announcement.
“This funding announcement is excellent news for Newfoundland and Labrador”, said Minister O’Regan, in the announcement. “Ensuring schools, hospitals, libraries and businesses have access to high-speed Internet service is essential. With these investments, we are equipping Newfoundlanders and Labradorians with the tools they need to reach each other and to reach out to the world.”
Photo of Minister O’Regan, second from left, Tuesday in St. John’s via Twitter
