The Trudeau government plans to sink $1.75 billion into a new fund to ensure Canadians in all corners of the country have high-speed internet access.
At a media event in Ottawa on Monday morning, Innovation, Science and Industry Minister Navdeep Bains said COVID-19 restrictions have taught us that access to high-speed internet is “absolutely essential” as more of us work and learn from home.
The Universal Broadband Fund is fundamental to our recovery from #COVID19. From supporting teachers and students with online learning to ensuring access to help in remote areas, to keeping people connected to their loved ones – the #UBF will impact the life of every
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— Maryam Monsef (@MaryamMonsef) November 9, 2020
Rural Economic Development Minister Maryam Monsef said economic recovery from COVID-19 begins with this fund.
“It will give people the ability to call for and receive emergency help. It will strengthen our local businesses on main streets, allow the ability to work from home and create more Canadian jobs,” Monsef said.
Monsef added $150 million of the Universal Broadband Fund is available now for shovel-ready projects.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said the plan includes hard to reach areas including remote areas in the north.
“We have reached a $600 million agreement with Telesat for satellite capacity to improve broadband,” Trudeau said.
