WINNIPEG – Clear Sky Connections (CSC) is set to begin initial construction on its new fibre network designed to bring high speed connectivity to Manitoba’s First Nations.
The Indigenous-owned network operator said that it has received consent from Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation (Nelson House), Norway House Cree Nation and Pimicikamak (Cross Lake) to act as gateway communities for connecting other communities to high speed Internet as the network is built.
All three communities have agreed to partner with CSC and provide some funding for the project. The build is scheduled to begin this summer with the fibre anticipated to be connected by the end of this year.
“We are deeply honoured that our partners and investors have contributed funding to make this a reality,” said CSC vice-chair chief David Crate, in the news release. “We call on Canada and the Province of Manitoba to inject more capital in to the 100% First Nations owned companies that are venturing together in this initiative. Ultimately we are deemed as the fasting growing population with the highest poverty rates across this country – the time is now to change the stigma that continues to plague our communities. But today we can change the mindsets of our future – of our generations to come. To maximize the economic benefits for the communities and the way we do business going forward.”
