High-speed internet access is being expanded throughout Halifax Regional Municipality as a result of an announcement today by the federal and provincial government.

The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities (ACOA), and Bill Dooks, Nova Scotia Minister of Energy, on behalf of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations Minister Jamie Muir, announced that the two governments are investing more than $2.6 million to expand broadband high-speed internet service to 45 communities in rural areas of HRM.

The Government of Canada is investing $1.1 million through ACOA’s Innovative Communities Fund (ICF) and a further $945,919 through the federal-provincial Municipal Rural Infrastructure Fund (MRIF). The Province of Nova Scotia is investing $607,200 through MRIF.

“The federal government is committed to building our country by first building strong vibrant communities,” said Mr. MacKay. “One key to success is ensuring that all citizens have the ability to connect with each other and with the rest of the world.”

“This project will enable 45 rural communities in HRM to be more competitive and productive and fits with our goal to make Nova Scotia the most connected area in all of North America,” said Mr. Dooks. “Being connected will empower our people to live where they want and to grow their businesses anywhere in Nova Scotia.”

The project announced today provides for the design and construction of the infrastructure required to deploy broadband service across HRM, which currently do not have access to high-speed Internet. When completed, it is expected that more than 98 per cent of all businesses and households in HRM will have access to this valuable service.

“Broadband service will enable individuals, businesses, schools and tourism facilities in rural HRM to receive a service that is now found mainly in more densely populated areas,” said Peter Kelly, mayor of HRM. “The result will be significant new support for business growth, job creation and an enhanced quality of life across the municipality.”

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For more information:

David Harrigan

Communications - ACOA Nova Scotia

902-426-4238

Deborah Bayer

Communications Advisor

Canada-Nova Scotia Infrastructure Secretariat

902-424-0112