Western James Bay Telcom Network launches fibre network in Kashechewan First Nation
Fibre optic cable launched in James Bay area First Nations
February 22, 2010 - by: Chris Kornacki
The Western James Bay Telecom Network (WJBTN) has announced the launch of the only fibre optic cable and wireless network serving the First Nation communities of Attawapiskat, Fort Albany and Kashechewan.
The network will give these communities fast, high-speed Internet and broadband service allowing the communities to access educational, employment, medical and telehealth services in a cost effective manner, says a Mushkegowuk Council press release.
The new network will officially open with a symbolic splicing of a fibre cable in Kashechewan Feb. 23. Community leaders from Attawapiskat, Fort Albany, Moosonee, Moose Factory, Timmins and other First Nation communities in Ontario will attend the ceremony.
“Residents have waited a long time to access reliable, high-speed Internet in our three communities,” WJBTN president, Leo Friday said. “We’re pleased that Mushkegowuk Council, the Chiefs and Councils of the First Nation communities, Five Nations Energy Inc., NOHFC, FedNor, Health Canada and Xittel have all worked together and supported this important project to make today possible.”
Funds for the $8 million project and was secured through public and private funding in order to launch the high-speed Internet and broadband service.
The Mushkegowuk Council helped secure funding for the network including $1.5 million from the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation; $500,000 from FedNor; $165,000 from Health Canada; $100,000 from Mushkegowuk Council and more than $150,000 from Attawapiskat, Kashechewan and Fort Albany First Nations.
“Mushkegowuk Council’s vision for the First Nations to own and operate an advanced fibre optic telecommunication network is now a reality thanks to the commitment, perseverance and dedication of the many First Nations, Five Nations Energy Inc., and community leaders who started this project in 2001 and despite the challenges of securing the funding over the years, remained committed to the idea that our residents need advanced telecom services to live, learn, work and contribute in today’s society,” Grand Chief Stan Louttit of the Mushkegowuk Council said.