Recently, the federal government announced the launch of Connecting Canadians, a new federal program that will bring high-speed internet to 280,000 Canadian households that currently do not have internet or have slower access. Larry Miller, MP for Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound, said in a news release that he encourages all residents who do not have internet access or have slower access to the internet to participate in a consultation process to help to the Government identify areas in need of funding through this program.

Between now and 2017, the Government will invest up to $305-million to extend access to broadband internet at a minimum of five megabits/second (Mbps) to 98 per cent of Canadian households, the news release from the MP's office stated. The program will target rural and remote communities in Canada.

In advance of funding being available to Internet Service Providers for specific areas, the Government is giving Canadians an opportunity to provide feedback on their current internet connection. An interactive map and survey form is available online at www.ic.gc.ca/ConnectingCanadians. Miller's office will also be accepting information from residents of Bruce and Grey counties who are not able to submit feedback through the online consultation system. Those who do not have access to the internet can contact Mr. Miller's office at 519-371-1059, he said in the release.

"The Federal Government is committed to providing broadband access to rural and remote areas. There are several areas in Bruce and Grey counties that could be eligible for funding through this program," said Miller in the release. "I strongly encourage all residents with no or limited internet access to provide feedback through the online consultation process or by submitting feedback to my office."

Local Internet Service Providers are also invited to submit information on their current coverage of specific areas as well as areas that require further coverage. This information can be submitted on the Connecting Canadians website listed above. Information should be submitted no later than August 30th, 2014.

Consultations with Canadians and Internet Service Providers will take place this summer followed by a call for applications from Internet Service Providers to apply for
funding for targeted local projects. Specific projects will be chosen in the Spring of 2015 with construction of infrastructure to begin in 2015.

For more information or to participate in the online consultations please visit https://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/028.nsf/eng/h_00587.html.

Source - Office of Larry Miller