Provincial Investment Will Bring Fibre-optic Technology to CBRM

State-of-the-art television and Internet access will soon be available to businesses and residents in Cape Breton Regional Municipality thanks to a $2-million provincial investment with Bell Aliant.

Premier Darrell Dexter announced today, May 28, that the forgivable loan will help bring fibre-optic technology directly to homes and businesses in Glace Bay, Sydney, North Sydney, Sydney River, New Waterford and Sydney Mines.

"This investment is the right decision for families in Cape Breton," said Premier Dexter.

"To build a bright future and a thriving province, Nova Scotia has to remain competitive in the global economy. That means making sure we have the right telecommunications infrastructure in place to create new jobs, grow the economy, explore new business opportunities and make life better for families in all regions."

Bell Aliant's 100 per cent fibre-optic network will be available to CBRM residents as early as the fall.

"We are thrilled to be able to bring fibre-optic technology to customers in Nova Scotia," said Bell Aliant president and CEO Karen Sheriff. "Today's announcement means an investment of $15 million in the Sydney area, enabling more than 30,000 homes and businesses to take advantage of this incredible and future-proof technology."

Bell Aliant's FibreOp service delivers unprecedented Internet speeds, the fastest in the region. This will make opportunities for telehealth, distance education, and telecommuting or working at home more accessible.

The project is expected to generate direct and indirect tax revenues worth up to $4.5 million. More than half of this investment will be spent on jobs and services.