Inuvik – Michael McLeod, MP for Northwest Territories, Diane Archie, N.W.T Minister of Infrastructure, on behalf of Caroline Wawzonek, N.W.T. Minister of Finance, and Duane Smith, Chair and CEO of the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation, announced a joint investment of more than $19.7 million for the construction of a fibre optic line from Inuvik to Tuktoyaktuk, bringing highspeed fibre optic communications to Tuktoyaktuk.
This investment will support the design and construction of a 137-kilometre fibre-based infrastructure between Inuvik and Tuktoyaktuk, the Inuvialuit hamlet on the Arctic Ocean, and enable the completion of fibre-based infrastructure between High Level, Alberta and Tuktoyaktuk. This new line will provide backbone infrastructure to support existing internet service in Tuktoyaktuk, which is currently provided through a microwave radio system, with a faster, more reliable fibre-optic link.
As part of this key infrastructure project, the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) will be collaborating with the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation as a key land owner in the Region.
Fast, affordable and reliable connectivity expands possibilities for northern communities – it improves the delivery of healthcare, education and other essential services; it bolsters sustainable and inclusive local and regional economies; and advances arctic science. It is essential that Northerners and Indigenous Peoples can fully engage with each other, the rest of Canada, and the global economy, no matter where they live. By investing in infrastructure, the Government of Canada is growing our country’s economy, building resilient communities, and improving the lives of Canadians.
“Reliable access to high-speed internet is vital to economic development and well-being, particularly in northern and remote communities. Today’s announcement marks another milestone for the North as residents and businesses will soon be able to connect faster to essential online services and benefit from additional opportunities made available through high-speed internet.” – Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities