26 First Nations still waiting for broadband Internet in B.C. at end of 2013

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      Seven more First Nations in British Columbia received broadband Internet connections this year.

      That brings the total number of First Nations with high-speed Internet access to 177 out of 203 (87 percent), meaning 26 First Nations (13 percent) are still waiting for broadband as 2013 comes to a close.

      These numbers were contained in a news release issued today (December 30) by the Ministry of Technology, Innovation and Citizens’ Services that touted expanded cellular coverage along B.C. highways.

      According to the release, the provincial government is continuing to support—along with the federal government and the All Nations Trust Company—the $48.8-million Pathways to Technology project, which aims to bring high-speed Internet access to all First Nations in B.C.

      In April, the province announced that the Lil’wat Nation—one of the four host First Nations of the 2010 Winter Olympic Games—had seen its Internet access upgraded to broadband as part of the project.

      Back in 2009, 123 of 203 First Nations had broadband Internet connectivity.

      Provincial budget documents dated March 2010 set out a target for the 2012-13 fiscal year of 195 First Nations (96 percent) with high-speed access.

      Comments

      3 Comments

      Scorpian

      Dec 30, 2013 at 1:43pm

      Are you aware that vast numbers of residents of British Columbia residing along Highway 16 (a major Canadian highway) do not have cell service, high speed internet service or access to Mobility services? All that is offered is a maximum of 28.8 Kbps which in today's world for government service access and anything else related to the internet is ridiculous !! When are the rest of us going to get some attention? We only got private telephone lines 12 years ago. Does that mean that 2025 is a likely taget date? The local MLA suggested forming a non-profit society and put in a system that would take vast numbers of volunteer hours and great costs to get what other Canadian take for granted. Local MP indicated funds were provided to local telecom but spent elsewhere that was considered more important. Are all not Canadians considered equal or does ethnicity count more today? What about all of the founding families of this country that are now considered expendible for others from all over the world that have access to high speed internet, cell service and mobility services? We are waiting, but the patience and understanding of the situation is very puzzling. Who decides who gets services? Where do we contact somebody that can help?

      G

      Dec 30, 2013 at 5:17pm

      87% of bands having access to broadband comares favourably with the 85% of rural Canadians undifferentiated by culture who have access to broadband.

      passit

      Dec 31, 2013 at 3:10am

      That stat about 85% comparing favorably means nothing and undermines a legitimate complaint about the sorry state of technology on hwy16. Lazy response. If BC wants to develop the north and show an appreciation for all the natural resources up there keeping the Province afloat they should keep the north on par with everyone else for such things as technology.