THUNDER BAY - More people across the north will gain access to reliable internet services thanks to a more than $2 million investment by the provincial government.
The $2.3 million investment through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation will go toward seven projects across Northern Ontario.
The projects include $1,036,772 for the Corporation du Développement Économique et Communautaire (CDEC) de Dubreuilville to install fibre optic infrastructure from Wawa to Dubreuilville, as well as to plan and secure partnerships with telecommunications companies for future broadband improvement projects.
Ontario Research and Innovation Optical Network (ORION) will receive $461,971 to upgrade its fibre optic network and install 11 in-line amplifier sites between Sudbury and Thunder Bay.
A $240,804 investment will be used by Tbaytel to deliver internet services in the rural areas surrounding Thunder Bay, including the municipalities of Shuniah, Oliver Paipoonge, Neebing and Fort William First Nation.
North Eastern Ontario Communications Network (NEOnet) Inc. is receiving $232,500 to launch and administer its Broadband for Remote Areas program, which will provide grants to small- and medium-sized enterprises located in Northern Ontario.
Mitaanjigamiing First Nation will use $173,000 to upgrade broadband fibre optic cable and infrastructure in the community.
A $139,130 investment for Keewaytinook Okimakanak to secure an 18-month contract for extended satellite bandwidth for the remote First Nations of Fort Hope, Martin Falls, Neskantaga and Webequie until permanent fibre optic cable is installed.
And $110,942 for Keewaytinook Okimakanak to upgrade broadband fibre optic cable and infrastructure in the Ojibway Nation of Saugeen community.
"Now more than ever, there is a need to improve broadband services in Northern Ontario. For too long, the north has lacked access to high-speed internet with limited connectivity in many remote communities," said Greg Rickford, Minister of Energy, Northern Development and Mines.
"Broadband is a key driver for economic growth, innovation and job creation and keeps our northern communities connected to their families and businesses. Our government is proud to support these critical infrastructure projects."
With more people working remotely due to the COVID-19 pandemic, reliable internet service has become more important than ever before.
“COVID-19 is increasing demand for reliable broadband service to connect Ontarians to their work, education and their businesses," said Laurie Scott, Minister of Infrastructure. "It is clear functioning remotely will continue to be a regular way of life and fast and reliable internet will be critical to bridge the digital divide in Northern Ontario."
The province recently provided an investment of $150 million for the Improving Connectivity in Ontario program, which funds broadband infrastructure projects in remote areas of Northern Ontario.
