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Rural and remote communities in Alberta will benefit from faster InternetResidents in 39 communities to get access to new or faster Internet through $22.5-million investment CALGARY, March 15, 2018 /CNW/ - Internet access serves as more than just a convenience; it is an essential means by which citizens, businesses and institutions access information, offer services and create opportunities that could otherwise be out of reach. Through an investment of $17.1 million, the Government of Canada is helping to bring new or improved high-speed Internet to Canadians in 39 rural and remote communities, enabling residents to get online. Of the 39 communities that will benefit from this investment, five are Indigenous communities. The funding was announced today by the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, at the Central Public Library in Calgary. This investment will help residents of these communities connect with family and friends, do business online, participate in distance education and take advantage of the opportunities afforded by the digital age. It will also help connect schools, hospitals, libraries and businesses to networks that are essential to their services. The Government of Canada's $500-million Connect to Innovate program is investing in building the digital backbone of high-speed Internet networks. Backbone networks are the digital highways that move data in and out of communities. These highways carry large amounts of data that are essential for schools, hospitals, libraries and businesses to function in a digital world. Quotes "Access to high-speed Internet is not a luxury; it's essential. High-speed Internet ervice is a basic tool that all Canadians should have access to, regardless of where they live. Canadians need this service to do business, upgrade their education and build stronger communities. Thanks to our Connect to Innovate program, more Canadians will be able to participate fully in the digital economy." Quick facts
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SOURCE Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada |