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.
READ MORE: Drive-through lines spike at Manitoba COVID-19 testing sites, no new cases for second day in a row
“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.”
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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.
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