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Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/1159085
Today's wireless technology means people are connected like never before. While there are still some gaps when it comes to coverage in some rural, remote and northern communities, Rogers Commu- nications is working to change that through partner- ships with B.C. First Nations. The Canadian company's collaboration with various Indigenous groups is about improving con- nectivity in these communities, as well as supporting a broader commitment to inclusion, diversity and reconciliation. Approximately 50 percent of First Nations in Canada are located in B.C., and while Rogers wireless coverage reaches 96 percent of the province, many First Nations groups are situated in remote, rural and northern communities without cellular service. "We are committed to bringing wireless connec- tivity to rural, remote and northern parts of Canada," says Rick Sellers, President of British Columbia, Rogers Communications. "We are proud to work with the provincial government and Indigenous communi- ties to identify parts of the province that would benefit from improved wireless coverage to help increase economic opportunities for local residents and businesses as well as improve public safety." Rogers and Nisga'a Nation, for example, recently collaborated to connect four Nisga'a communities throughout northwestern B.C. LTE wireless coverage has connected approximately 1,200 residents in the villages of Gitlaxt'aamiks, Gitwinksihlkw, Laxgalts'ap and Gingolx. This reliable, consistent and fast coverage from Rogers has had vital, tangible effects. For instance, Nisga'a communi- ties have experienced economic benefits such as increased eco-tourism to the famous Nisga'a Memo- rial Lava Bed Provincial Park as well as improved access to education and health-care delivery. The Rogers network also provides essential emer- gency coverage so residents and visitors alike can call 911, having immediate access to urgent and at times life-saving services. Rogers also recently established wireless and emergency coverage for Witsuwit'en Village (Witset First Nation, which consists of seven communities), previously the only First Nation to have been without cellular service along Highway 16. A partnership of Witset First Nation, Rogers Com- munications, Northern Development Initiative Trust and the Province of B.C., the project means continu- ous network coverage from New Hazelton to Smith- ers. This new connectivity benefits residents, tourists and businesses in Witset First Nation and contributes directly to economic development, helping youth looking for opportunities as well as community safety and security for indigenous peoples in northern B.C. Rogers has also expanded wireless service in Kelowna, West Kelowna and Westbank First Nation. Rogers and Fido customers near Mount Boucherie and Upper Okanagan Mission are among those who Rogers is helping bring the latest generation of wireless coverage to remote and northern B.C. communities CONNECTING FIRST NATIONS COMMUNITIES Legacy Space at Rogers headquarters in Toronto (here and below) Nyla Ahmad