High-speed internet access is essential for all Canadians, no matter where they live. To help Canadians living in rural and remote areas have access to high-speed internet, the Government of Canada launched the Universal Broadband Fund.
Today, the York Region Liberal Caucus announced a $19 million investment through the Universal Broadband Fund to help connect thousands in rural York Region. Caucus members include Hon. Mary Ng, MP Markham-Thornhill, Hon. Helena Jaczek, MP Markham-Stouffville, Paul Chiang, MP Markham-Unionville, Francesco Sorbara, MP Vaughan-Woodbridge, Majid Jowhari, MP Richmond Hill, Leah Taylor Roy, MP Aurora-Oak Ridges-Richmond Hill, and Tony Van Bynen, MP Newmarket-Aurora.
In August 2021, York Region successfully secured funding through the federal Universal Broadband Fund (UBF) to expand its fiber network to improve connectivity for under-served communities. The $19 million in federal funding will support YorkNet by helping to close 99% of the underserved gaps in York Region before 2030, establish a 531-kilometer last-mile network to improve broadband capacity for 3,810 underserved households in York Region. Additionally, this will position the York Region to adapt future technologies and enable service delivery to more households and businesses by increasing partnerships with private sector companies.
The Caucus joined members of the York Region to announce the investment. The Caucus remains steadfast in their commitment to support the York Region and bring federal investments into the Region through the Universal Broadband Fund.
“We all know that internet access is no longer a luxury in this day and age, it’s a necessity. Access to fast, reliable internet helps rural Canadians by levelling the playing field so they can access essential services like health care and education, participate in the digital economy, or simply connect with loved ones. The York Region Liberal Caucus is pleased to announce the $19 million investment into YorkNet through the Universal Broadband Fund (UBF) to support 3,810 underserved households in York Region. On behalf of the York Region Liberal Caucus, we are pleased to see the gaps in high-speed internet across York Region closing through the critical investments being delivered to our community” – MP Tony Van Bynen
Quick Facts
· The Universal Broadband Fund is a $3.2 billion investment that supports high-speed Internet projects across the country. These projects will bring Internet at speeds of 50/10 Megabits per second to rural and remote areas.
· The Government of Canada is connecting 98% of Canadians to high-speed Internet by 2026 and 100% of Canadians by 2030. No matter where you live, affordable high-speed Internet is essential. Connecting with loved ones, operating a business, working remotely and accessing vital services requires a fast, dependable Internet connection.
