OTTAWA — The Government of Canada announced last Friday it has awarded Bell Canada $404,936 in funding from the Universal Broadband Fund (UBF) to improve mobile connectivity in the Atikamekw First Nation community of Wemotaci in Quebec.
The federal government’s $2.75-billion UBF includes up to $50 million in funding for mobile Internet projects benefiting Indigenous peoples, a press release explains.
“It is crucial that all Canadians, including members of First Nations, have access to stable and secure mobile connectivity,” said François-Philippe Champagne, minister of innovation, science and industry, in the press release. “Connecting rural and remote areas of the country, including in Quebec, is a priority for the Government of Canada. Today’s announcement further demonstrates our commitment to connecting all Canadians across the country.”
In Quebec alone, since 2015, the federal government has invested more than $731 million to improve connectivity throughout the province, according to the press release.
“Bell’s goal is to provide communities in Quebec with the best networks to communicate with the rest of the world,” said Karine Moses, Quebec vice-chair of Bell.
“Mobile network access is a key contributor to the development of communities both large and small. We’re pleased to be collaborating with the Government of Canada in implementing a reliable and fast mobile network to connect the Atikamekw First Nation of Wemotaci,” Moses said.
“This project will enhance the safety of our members when travelling over parts of the territory as they will be able to communicate with authorities or their loved ones when necessary,” said Constant Awashish, grand chief of the Atikamekw Nation. “I welcome this initiative and hope that cellular network coverage will soon be extended throughout Nitaskinan.”
