Government of Canada Announces Rural Broadband Funding for Macleod

May 26, 2010

Claresholm, Alberta – Ted Menzies, Member of Parliament for Macleod and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Finance, announced funding for the riding of Macleod as part of the Broadband Canada: Connecting Rural Canadians program.  The program will bring broadband Internet access to an estimated 169,000 households in nine provinces and territories across Canada.

"High-speed internet access is critical to stay competitive in the 21st century digital economy," said Menzies.  "I am very pleased that this initiative will create new opportunities for telehealth, business, and distance learning for more people than ever before.  I am confident that these funds will encourage economic development, spur innovation, and improve the quality of life in communities across southern Alberta."

6% of Canadian households currently lack broadband access, but in rural areas, that figure is closer to 22%.  After a comprehensive nationwide survey of broadband access to determine what regions have the highest need, the federal government has confirmed funding of up to 50% for organizations selected to deploy broadband infrastructure and services to these areas.

Funding for Macleod under Broadband Canada includes over $9 million for communities throughout the riding.  These projects are funded through $225 million provided in Canada's Economic Action Plan to bring high-speed Internet access to underserved households across the country.
By far the biggest component is the Broadband Canada: Connecting Rural Canadians program. Broadband Internet access is essential in today's economy, as it enables people and businesses to access information, services, and opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach.

For more information about Broadband Canada, please visit www.ic.gc.ca.