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| Backgrounder(s) & FactSheet(s): | Backgrounder |
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| Backgrounder(s) & FactSheet(s): | Backgrounder |
VICTORIA – Thirty B.C. communities have received funding to
help them bridge the digital divide through broadband Internet access, Labour
and Citizens’ Services Minister Michael de Jong announced today.
NetworkBC, through the
First Nations Technology Council (FNTC) and the British Columbia Community Connectivity
Co-operative (BC3), has provided
$600,000 in Community Networking Infrastructure Grants for the purchase of
‘last mile’ infrastructure necessary to connect local Internet providers with a
broadband point of presence in their communities.
“Internet connectivity will help improve
opportunities for education, health care and business,” said de Jong. “This is
another important step toward our goal of becoming the best educated, most
literate jurisdiction on the continent.”
These grants of up to
$20,000 will help bring Internet access to homes and businesses in 30 remote,
rural and First Nations communities.
“The First Nations Technology Council welcomes the
leadership the Province has shown with this funding, but much remains to be
done. We look forward to working with the Province to make sure all our
communities benefit from the possibilities emerging technology offers,” said
Grand Chief Edward John of the First Nations Summit.
“The task of bringing broadband connectivity to
remote regions of the Province is as challenging as it is necessary,” said Arvo Koppel, chair of BC3. “We know
that success in these 30 communities will provide a great model for the
remaining rural regions that are still striving to get connected.”
NetworkBC is a dedicated
project office within the Ministry of Labour and Citizens’ Services, working
with British Columbia communities and the private sector to connect all B.C.
communities to broadband telecommunications networks.
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Communications Director Ministry of Labour and Citizens’ Services 250 387-2699 |
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Visit the Province's website at www.gov.bc.ca for online information and services. |
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