CHARLOTTETOWN – Prince Edward Island Premier Robert Ghiz today announced the province has entered into a development agreement with Aliant that will see the telco invest $8.2 million to extend broadband services to every community in PEI.
Also established is a $1 million “joint innovation fund while the government also renewed its telecommunications contract with the Bell-owned telco.
"The agreement which we are announcing today fulfills one of the government’s major commitments made during the last election campaign," said Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development Minister Allan Campbell, in a release. "This new service will be of major benefit to individuals and businesses throughout rural Prince Edward Island, and will enable them to become more competitive through the use of new technologies.
The renewal of the government’s telecommunications contract with Aliant, which includes local and long distance services, for a further five years, means a total cost-saving of $2.5 million over current rates.
As well, over the next five years, Aliant and the provincial government will invest $500,000 each towards a new information technology innovation fund to promote and develop Internet based applications and uses for Island businesses.
"We are very pleased to partner with the government of PEI on these important initiatives. Today underscores the tremendous power of partnership and our shared commitment to keep this region at the forefront of innovation." said Bruce Howatt, vice-president Prince Edward Island, Aliant.
"It is estimated that more than 25% of Islanders and rural businesses do not have access to high speed Internet," said Campbell. "This new service will help stimulate rural businesses and improve the quality of life for people living in rural communities. At the core of this strategy is that rural Islanders, like their urban counterparts, have the opportunity to receive the same level of services at a fair price.”
