Ontario is investing $30 million in the Matawa broadband project that will help more than 670 homes and institutions.

Premier Doug Ford made the announcement today in Thunder Bay saying reliable and affordable internet is vital.

“It’s important for school, for business, to bring everyone together. Imagine if I went home to my four girls and told them, by the way, there’s no internet. They would go wild.”

This project will provide modern telecommunication services to five Matawa-member communities: Nibinamik, Neskantaga, Eabametoong, Marten Falls and Webequie First Nations.

The Matawa broadband project is part of Up to Speed: Ontario’s Broadband and Cellular Action Plan, a $315 million investment to improve and expand broadband and cellular service. The plan includes a $150 million commitment to increase coverage in unserved and underserved communities, including remote First Nation communities.

The Matawa broadband project will give communities access to education, training and skills development, as well as business opportunities to help the region compete in the global economy. It will also enhance government services, from e-health services to enhanced emergency management systems.