Lisa Beare, provincial Minister of Citizens Services spoke with the Mirror over the lunch hour about a $9.8 million in combined federal and provincial funding that will improve internet connectivity for approximately 1,600 households in Chetwynd.
Beare noted there was still work to do.
“There are still gaps but that is why we’re committed until 2027 in connecting all communities,” said Minister Lisa Beare to the Mirror.
The District of Chetwynd will receive as much as $9.8 million to install new fibre optics in Dokie Siding, Twidwell Bend and Wabi Hill. This is part of a $24-million joint commitment to improve connectivity throughout northern B.C.
District of Chetwynd mayor Allen Courtoreille said they appreciate the support of the Province of B.C. and the federal government in making grant funds available to achieve greater connectivity for the community.
“Reliable internet connectivity is required by residents and businesses for work, school, medical care and economic reasons. Were excited that internet capacity in Chetwynd will soon be upgraded to provide a faster, more reliable service,” he said in a statement.
Beare noted the recent announcement of =five call boxes up the Alaska Highway where there is no coverage, as well as some still waiting on old school phone lines in remote area are why the commitment is longer term
“I very much agree there are issues and that is why were are doing this,” said Beare.
“It’s 2022 and the internet is a need, not a want.”
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