Rural Broadband Partnerships on South Coast Strengthen Telecommunications Access

Through a partnership with Burgeo Broadcasting Systems and Ramea Communications, the Provincial Government has successfully delivered upgraded services to Ramea, Grey River, and Francois. The combined investment between the Provincial Government, Burgeo Broadcasting Systems, and Ramea Communications totalled $230,000.

“The collaborative approach taken by the Provincial Government to improve telecommunications services in Newfoundland and Labrador has proven to be effective,” said the Honourable Keith Hutchings, Minister of Innovation, Business and Rural Development. “Significant progress in capacity has been made since the launch of the Rural Broadband Initiative in 2011, resulting in substantial benefits to communities and businesses.”

Strategic investments and successful partnerships have been the cornerstone to delivering innovative and customized broadband solutions. It is an approach that has led to more than 470 communities having access in Newfoundland and Labrador.

“On behalf of our board of directors, I would like to thank the Provincial Government for all of the help and cooperation that has strengthened our efforts to upgrade our cable system during the past 18 months,” said Samuel Fiander, President, Ramea Broadcasting Company. “Our combined efforts have established a high speed Internet system and our subscribers are delighted with the outcome.”

With the next phase of the Rural Broadband Initiative underway, the Provincial Government is working with partners to create greater broadband access through the use of fibre, satellite, wireless, and fixed wireless technologies.

In September 2012, the Provincial Government initiated another Rural Broadband Initiative call for proposals which closed in November 2012. The successful submissions will be announced shortly.

As outlined in the 2006 innovation strategy Innovation Newfoundland and Labrador: A Blueprint for Prosperity, broadband access is a key component of the province’s innovation infrastructure.

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2013 03 04             4:00 p.m.