Manitoba wants companies to use the province’s fibre-optic network to expand broadband capabilities to rural and isolated communities.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of broadband connectivity and the need to ensure people across the province have access to critical information, such as distance learning programs or internet-based mental health services,” said Crown Services Minister Jeff Wharton.
“We want to help close the telecommunication gap in our province to better connect rural, remote and Indigenous communities, improve safety and access to information and learning resources.”
Wharton said Manitoba has a mostly-unused fibre optic network, owned by Manitoba Hydro, and it can be used to improve internet and cellular access throughout the province.
Questions about COVID-19? Here are some things you need to know:
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