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Pandemic highlights needed change in broadband funding regime, says critic, access expert
By Aidan Chamandy February 17, 2021
The various funding streams aimed at increasing internet access beget confusion and hurt uptake, says NDP industry critic Brian Masse.
The mandate letter of Women and Gender Equality and Rural Economic Development Minister Maryam Monsef, pictured on Nov. 9, 2020, tasks her with increasing 'high-speed broadband coverage in rural Canada by leading the rollout of existing investments.' The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade
As the COVID-19 pandemic approaches its one-year anniversary, with Canadians flocking to Zoom, Call of Duty, and Netflix to manage work and life under lockdown, an internet policy expert and the NDP’s industry critic say the way Canada approaches bridging the digital divide is not working, and is falling hardest on rural and remote communities.
Aidan ChamandyAidan Chamandy is a reporter covering federal policy and parties for The Hill Times.
Follow - achamandy@hilltimes.com
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