Keewaytinook Okimakanak partner satellite served First Nations receiving a network upgrade
Keewaytinook Okimakanak hosted Greg Rickford, MP for Kenora, on Friday, Oct 15 for the announcement of a $929,000 investment in upgrading the headend sites in each of the 14 satellite served First Nations in Northwestern Ontario.
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Industry Canada / FedNor News Release
GOVERNMENT OF CANADA SUPPORTS INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY INITIATIVE IN NORTHWESTERN ONTARIO
SIOUX LOOKOUT, Ontario, October 15, 2010 — Greg Rickford, the Member of Parliament for Kenora, on behalf of the Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for FedNor, today announced that the Government of Canada is investing $929,000 in the Keewaytinook Okimakanak/Northern Chiefs Council to upgrade its satellite-based broadband infrastructure that services 14 First Nations communities in Northwestern Ontario.
“This funding is a strategic investment by the Government of Canada to ensure remote Northern First Nation communities have the information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure they need to effectively function and compete in today’s economy,” said MP Rickford.
The FedNor investment will be used to improve network reliability and stability, delivering community-wide connectivity and access to broadband applications. The initiative will enhance videoconferencing, telemedicine, mobile phones and distance education capabilities, where these services exist.
“The Government of Canada is committed to enhancing the capacity of existing businesses to expand and develop new opportunities leading to additional job creation,” added Minister Clement. “This initiative will provide First Nation communities with the tools they need to realize their economic potential.”
“We are excited about the possibilities that the upgrades will afford our communities,” said Geordi Kakepetum, Chairman of Keewaytinook Okimakanak/Northern Chiefs Council. “Not only will the project help address some of the challenges due to geographic isolation, but it will also support local business development and growth.”
To find out more about FedNor, visit us at: http://ic.gc.ca/FedNor
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For more information, please contact:
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Kim Fewchuk
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1-877-333-6673