Canada and Ontario Governments Invest $3.1 Million in High-Speed Internet for Es

Canada and Ontario Governments Invest $3.1 Million in High-Speed Internet for Essex County Communities

The governments of Canada and Ontario are jointly investing over $3.1 million to ensure reliable high-speed internet access for 1,915 families, farms, and businesses in Essex County. This initiative aims to bolster infrastructure, foster inclusive communities, generate employment opportunities, and strengthen the local economy.

Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities, the Honourable Sean Fraser, emphasized the government's commitment to fortifying Canada's infrastructure for resilience and prosperity. He underscored that the investment is not only delivering dependable broadband infrastructure but also bolstering inclusivity and creating favorable economic conditions.

Irek Kusmierczyk, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion and Member of Parliament of Windsor—Tecumseh, praised the partnership between federal and provincial governments, as well as Southwestern Integrated Fibre Technology (SWIFT) Inc. He highlighted that this collaboration enables the expansion of a robust high-speed network to three additional communities in Southern Ontario. This advancement is set to enhance cellular connectivity, enabling seamless access to crucial services for residents and businesses.

Through a partnership with SWIFT, the federal and provincial governments are extending broadband infrastructure to Marentette Beach, Lighthouse Cove, and Stoney Point, thereby facilitating high-speed internet access in these areas.

Lisa Thompson, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, emphasized the Ontario government's dedication to extending high-speed internet access across the province. The newly established broadband infrastructure in Essex County, she noted, contributes to building stronger rural communities, improving connectivity, and boosting the local economy.

This announcement signifies the completion of three additional projects under SWIFT's umbrella. It aligns with the Ontario government's strategy to strategically deploy infrastructure to support residents' desired lifestyles and pursuits.

MPP Trevor Jones, Chatham-Kent-Leamington, Parliamentary Assistant of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, highlighted how the investment is fostering community connections, facilitating essential support access, and promoting growth in rural areas. He affirmed the government's ongoing commitment to extending high-speed internet access to various communities across the province.

SWIFT, a not-for-profit organization initiated by local municipalities to address connectivity concerns, managed the contracts for expanding broadband services in Essex County. Gary McNamara, SWIFT Board Chair, hailed the completion of these high-speed internet projects as a pivotal stride toward bridging the digital divide, enhancing economic prospects, and benefiting the region in the long run.

Collectively, the governments of Canada and Ontario, along with private sector contributions, have injected more than $255 million into the SWIFT initiative. This funding aims to provide high-speed internet access to over 63,000 homes and businesses in Southwestern Ontario by the close of 2023, thereby fostering progress, connectivity, and economic development.