Connectivity. Seems like such a simple thing, doesn’t it? Most of us can’t imagine a world without it. For many First Nation communities in Canada, not having access to the proper connectivity is a reality they face every day. The lack of quality, high-speed broadband coverage that Canadians are receiving in rural areas across the country, is an issue that WireIE has strived to resolve since we opened our doors ten years ago. When the seed was planted from FirstTEL and KNET on the possibility of a broadband expansion within one of Canada’s First Nation communities, our team of experts jumped on the opportunity to be involved.
On March 1st, for many underserved Canadians in the Wiikwemkoong region, their problem was finally over. At a press conference held that morning, FirstTEl Communications, along with the Government of Canada, announced the new Connecting Canadians rural broadband program for the community of Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory. With a federal investment of $104,000, WireIE along with partners FirstTEL and KNET were able to expand broadband infrastructure to the members and businesses of the Wiikwemkoong community, leaving those who were once underserved now up to par with established communities across Canada.
So, what’s the next step of the program? Expanding. Not only by connecting households but by connecting communities. “There are First Nations communities like Wiikwemkoong all across Canada. If they don’t have connectivity and the internet, then a lot of these communities will not survive,” stated Marc Serré, MP of Nickel Belt. “The importance of getting that connectivity is crucial, to not only increase the quality of life but to support local business ventures.”
In today’s day and age, we know how important technology and access to the internet is to the economic climate and educational development. By continuing this expansion, WireIE along with our partners FirstTEL, can continue to secure an economic future for underserved communities across Canada.
