Broadband Internet availability in 20 communities in Brome-Missisquoi RCM

From: Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

News Release

Quotes

“The Québec branché program is a high-impact initiative that meets the growing needs of rural areas for broadband Internet services. The Haut-Richelieu Internet project represents a significant step toward connecting communities in the Brome-Missisquoi RCM. It will contribute to the region’s ability to attract and retain families and businesses. I would like to highlight the commitment of regional players and supporters to our collective prosperity.”
– Stéphane Billette, Quebec Minister for Small and Medium Enterprises, Regulatory Streamlining and Regional Economic Development

“I have the great pleasure of announcing this funding under the Connect to Innovate program. It is essential nowadays that our rural communities be connected to ensure their longevity. I would like to highlight the historic partnership between our government and that of Quebec. Through collaboration, we are successfully developing projects like the one we’re announcing today. Citizens in the Brome–Missisquoi RCM will be able to count on a reliable, high-speed network that will enable them to, among other things, work effectively from home, take online courses or look for work. This is excellent news for our region and my fellow citizens.”
– The Honourable Denis Paradis, Member of Parliament for Brome–Missisquoi

“Carrying out this project in the Brome-Missisquoi RCM will help businesses that need broadband Internet services to maintain their operations and be more competitive. Families in remote areas that were previously underserved will enjoy a better quality of life. The entire Montérégie region will come away a winner.”
– Lucie Charlebois, Quebec Minister for Rehabilitation, Youth Protection, Public Health and Healthy Living and Minister responsible for the Montérégie region

“Our support for these projects will enable more households and businesses to connect, thereby contributing to Quebec’s economic growth and the vitality of its regions. Just like electricity was a driving force in the 20th century, access to broadband Internet is today a powerful driver of digital and socio-economic development. That’s why, in its recent economic update, the Government of Quebec announced an investment of $300 million over the next five years so that all residents are able to access high-speed networks.”
– Dominique Anglade, Deputy Premier of Quebec, Minister of Economy, Science and Innovation and Minister responsible for the Digital Strategy

“Access to high-speed Internet is not a luxury; it’s essential. High-speed Internet services are basic tools that all Canadians should have access to, regardless of their postal code. Canadians need these services to do business and build stronger communities. The Government of Canada recognizes that innovation takes place everywhere in Canada, both in cities and rural areas. Thanks to our Connect to Innovate program, Canadians will be better able to seize the opportunities offered by the digital economy.”
– The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development

Quick Facts

• The Québec branché program, which has initially been allocated $100 million, is one of the pillars of the Digital Economy Action Plan and the Quebec Digital Strategy (all links are to French web pages). The Quebec Digital Strategy was released on December 13, 2017: #StratNumQc.

• The Government of Canada’s $500-million Connect to Innovate program will extend and enhance broadband service in Canadian rural and remote communities.

Contacts

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Contacts

Jean‑Pierre McKenzie
Political Attaché
Office of the Member for Huntingdon
450-247‑3474

Bianca Boutin
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister for Rehabilitation, Youth Protection, Public Health and Healthy Living and Minister responsible for the Montérégie region
418-266-7181

Gabrielle Tellier
Attachée de presse
Cabinet de la vice-première ministre, ministre de l'Économie, de la Science et de l'Innovation et ministre responsable de la Stratégie numérique
418 691-5650

Karl W. Sasseville
Attaché de presse
Cabinet du ministre
de l'Innovation, des Sciences et du Développement économique
343 291-2500

Information

Jean-Pierre D’Auteuil
Media Relations Officer
Communications Branch
Ministry of Economy, Science and Innovation
418-691-5698, extension 4868
418-559-0710 (cell)

Media Relations
Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
343-291-1777
ic.mediarelations-mediasrelations.ic@canada.ca