WESTERN N.S. – Internet access is more than just a convenience, says West Nova MP Colin Fraser, it’s a necessity.
And yet there are many areas in the West Nova riding who don’t have access to high-speed internet.
Last week Fraser announced an investment by the Government of Canada to bring high-speed internet services to 16 communities in West Nova. An announcement for two other communities had been previously made by MP Scott Brison.
The funding comes from the Government of Canada’s $500-million Connect to Innovate program and internet service providers.
“High-speed Internet service is an economic and social necessity,” said Fraser. “For rural Nova Scotia, it is imperative that governments, businesses and residents work together to create conditions that aim to attract new businesses and retain and grow our population base.
“These investments will go a long way in connecting our rural communities,” he said. “I look forward to continuing to work towards securing further investments to get all of our communities properly connected.”
Fraser there are communities for which is isn’t just a case that they have poor performing internet, but rather they don’t have access to high-speed internet at all.
“They are starting out from scratch,” he said about the areas included in this announcement.
The internet funding was released last week.
Receiving funding in Yarmouth County (totalling $421,875) were:
• Sandford: $43,751 Eastlink investment, $131,250 federal investment
• Gavelton: $36,759 Eastlink investment, $110,115 federal investment
• Central Chebogue: $25,000 Eastlink investment, $75,000 federal investment
In Digby County:
• North Range area south of Digby (455 households): $1,770,294 (includes federal investment and Bell Canada investment)
Another $4.9 million is being invested is in communities in the Annapolis Valley.
READ ALSO: $1 million announced for improved internet in Shelburne County
