Government Brings High-Speed Internet to 7,500 Remote Households Across BC

Today, 93% of Canadian households have access to high-speed Internet, compared to 79% in 2014.

It’s significant progress, but we’re not done yet.

The federal and provincial governments agree that all Canadians deserve reliable and affordable high-speed Internet and mobile connectivity, regardless of where they live.

“Connectivity is an essential tool to access education and health care and to grow a business,” says Gudie Hutchings, Canada’s Minister of Rural Economic Development. “It also improves safety and provides peace of mind.”

This week, the governments of Canada and British Columbia jointly announced $37 million in federal and provincial funding toward 14 projects aiming to bring high-speed Internet access to communities across British Columbia.

“By increasing access to high-speed Internet, we are building strong, resilient communities in B.C. where people can thrive,” believes George Chow, British Columbia’s Minister of Citizens’ Services. “The funding announced . . . means people in rural and remote areas of the province are able to fully participate in the digital economy and access online resources.”

The investment will equip more than 7,000 additional households with high-speed internet, Chow says.

It is part of a $3 billion nationwide commitment to connect 98% of Canadians to high-speed Internet by 2026 and 100% by 2030.

The government is working with regional internet service provider TELUS on the project.

“TELUS is committed to ensuring that all British Columbians have access to reliable, high-speed Internet to thrive in today’s digital world,” stated Shazia Zeb Sobani, who functions as Vice-President of Customer Network Planning for TELUS.  “This well-needed gigabit connectivity will enable these communities to participate globally to enable better economic, educational, health and social outcomes.”

“High-speed” internet connectivity is defined by the government as 50 megabits per second download rate and 10 Mbps upload.

Since 2015, the Government of Canada has invested $533 million in connectivity projects in British Columbia. Since 2017, the Government of British Columbia has invested $584 million in connectivity projects in the province.