News Release

September 3, 2004

GOVERNMENT OF CANADA INVESTS IN FIBRE OPTIC CABLES FOR ÎLES-DE-LA-MADELEINE

CAP-AUX-MEULES, Québec - The Honourable Jean-C. Lapierre, Minister of Transport and Political Lieutenant for Québec, today confirmed the Government of Canada’s support for a project benefiting Îles-de-la-Madeleine. The project involves the installation of underwater fibre optic cables between the islands and Gaspésie. This important project has been long awaited by the Madelinots and will enable the deployment of a fibre optic network linking amongst others, schools and hospitals.

“I’m extremely pleased today to confirm this partnership between the governments of Canada and Québec. It clearly demonstrates our joint commitment to collaborate in order to meet the needs identified by communities in Quebec,” said Minister Lapierre. “The implementation of a modern telecommunications system is a priority identified at the local level and will certainly prove to be an important factor in promoting future investments and new projects on the Islands.”

The Government of Canada, through the Canada Strategic Infrastructure Fund (CSIF), will contribute $6.9 million to the project. The Government of Québec will provide an equal amount for a total investment of $13.8 million.

“This project is another example of the Government of Canada’s commitment to support the sustainable development of communities of all sizes,” said the Honourable John Godfrey, Minister of State (Infrastructure and Communities). “In the spirit of the New Deal for cities and communities and in support of the objectives of the CSIF, this investment will contribute to the development of infrastructure that supports economic growth and quality of life on the Islands.”

The project was initiated by the Réseau intégré de communications électroniques des Îles-de-la-Madeleine (RICEIM). The underwater fibre optic cables, over 230 km long, should be installed this fall weather permitting. This broadband infrastructure will provide a tool for sustainable development for local residents. It will be in line with the Government of Canada’s policy of open access assuring third-party access to those who may want to use this telecommunications system. According to estimates, the underwater cables will meet the Islands’ capacity needs for at least 25 years.

An environmental assessment for the project, in compliance with the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act, began in December 2003 and is well underway. Once the assessment is complete and the responsible federal authorities have concluded that the project is not likely to result in significant negative impacts, work on the project will begin, taking into account any mitigation measures identified.

In accordance with the regular process for investments by the Canada Strategic Infrastructure Fund, details pertaining to the Government of Canada’s investment will be outlined in a contribution agreement.

About the Canada Strategic Infrastructure Fund (CSIF)

Through the Canada Strategic Infrastructure Fund (CSIF), the Government of Canada collaborates with provincial and territorial governments as well as with municipal administrations and the private sector, to meet strategic infrastructure needs throughout the country. The CSIF supports large-scale national and regional strategic infrastructure projects that improve further sustainable growth and the quality of life of Canadians. Since 1994, the Government of Canada has committed $12 billion for infrastructure projects, which should leverage $30 billion from all partners.

Contacts:

Irène Marcheterre
Office of Jean-C. Lapierre
Minister of Transport
(613) 991-0700

Mary Johnson
Infrastructure Canada
(613) 290-5847

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