ENOCH, Alta. – The Governments of Canada and Alberta announced today a new partnership agreement that will see the federal government match the $150 million in funding the provincial government committed to in July to help improve access to high-speed Internet in rural, remote and Indigenous communities in the province.
“Through the federal-provincial partnership, both governments will work collaboratively to assess, select and co-fund projects that have been submitted through the Government of Canada’s Universal Broadband Fund,” a press release from Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada says.
“Access to high-speed Internet will create jobs, improve health and safety for all and help bridge the rural-urban divide,” said Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance, in the press release.
“Prior to today’s announcement, the Government of Canada had already invested $45 million in 48 projects that will connect over 35,000 Alberta households. The Government of Canada is proud to partner with the Government of Alberta through the Universal Broadband Fund to further enhance connectivity for Albertans.”
“Bringing capital and connectivity into Indigenous communities means more opportunities for our youth and better services for our elders and families,” said Chief Billy Morin, Enoch Cree Nation. “When First Nations succeed, Alberta succeeds and Canada succeeds. This broadband investment and agreement will help make that happen.”
Funding announcements for individual projects will be made starting in early 2022.
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