Ottawa to Help Fund Nova Scotia's Broadband Initiative

A project to bring high-speed internet service to rural Nova Scotians got a boost from the government of Canada today, Oct. 9. The Broadband for Rural Nova Scotia initiative, launched by the province last January, will receive 50 per cent of eligible public-sector costs from the federal government.

The announcement follows the province's successful pilot project in Cumberland County earlier this year and a strong response to a request for proposals issued in June.

"Having the federal government contribute to our broadband initiative is another important milestone for this project," said Rodney MacDonald, Premier of Nova Scotia. "Access to broadband service is critical and that is why the government of Nova Scotia is committed to expanding access across the province by the end of 2009."

The goal of the broadband project is to make Nova Scotia the most connected area in North America.

"As part of its Building Canada infrastructure plan, Canada's government is investing in priority infrastructure initiatives that support a growing economy, a cleaner environment, and a more secure Canada," said ACOA Minister Peter MacKay. "Access to broadband is an essential tool that will help improve access to important services and promote the economic prosperity of rural and remote communities here in Nova Scotia and across Canada."

Nova Scotia is in negotiations with the federal government to conclude a framework agreement under the Building Canada infrastructure plan and a subsequent funding agreement.

Nova Scotia has been recognized for its innovative, unique approach to attracting qualified service providers for rural areas. This approach leverages public assets such as towers, access to Crown land, the provision of detail mapping and demographic data, and the grouping of unserved areas into zones that are attractive to service providers.

The service-provider selection process will be completed in October with contract negotiations to begin in early November. Work will begin in all provincial zones later this year.