Manitoba has entered into an agreement with Xplornet Communications that will see more than 125,000 Manitobans who are currently unserved or underserved receive reliable, high-speed internet services.
Thirty First Nations and 270 rural and northern communities will be provided broadband services under the agreement. In addition the agreement will also serve 350 communities with cellphone access.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has reinforced the importance of broadband connectivity and the need to ensure Manitobans have access to critical and timely information and services no matter where they live, work or travel in Manitoba,” said Premier Brian Pallister.
Under the agreement Xplornet will have access to thousands of kilometres of Manitoba Hydro’s fibre-optic cable across Manitoba. The fibre-optic network is used to connect with northern hydroelectric facilities. Much of the network’s capacity is unused.
“Access to Manitoba Hydro’s fibre-optic network and tower infrastructure will also greatly reduce the capital investments Xplornet needs to expand into rural and remote communities, allowing for a positive return on investment and the quick delivery of service to Manitobans,” said Central Services Minister Reg Helwer.
© News4.ca 2021
