OTTAWA – The federal government announced Friday a new investment in high-speed Internet for rural communities as part of its Connect to Innovate initiative.
Bernadette Jordan, Minister of Rural Economic Development, said that the $5.2 million investment will bring new or improved high-speed Internet access for the central Ontario community of Udora and the Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation in the Regional Municipality of York.
"Broadband Internet service is key for the prosperity of rural Canadian communities,” said Minister Jordan, in the announcement. “This project will allow these two communities in the Regional Municipality of York to be better connected to friends, family and businesses, as well as have better access to online services and tools. By providing better broadband connections, we are increasing the potential for economic growth and diversification and enhancing the quality of life in small and rural communities."
To date, under Connect to Innovate, the Government of Canada has announced funding to improve Internet connectivity in more than 900 rural and remote communities – including 190 Indigenous communities – which is more than triple the 300 communities initially targeted.
