Underwater Internet Cable for Ella Lake, Upper Island Lake & Batchewana First Nation
Official title: New Fibre Installation
Bell Canada wants to lay underwater fibre optic cables to bring internet service to homes on Ella Lake, Upper Island Lake, and the Obadjiwan 15E community of Batchewana First Nation. The project involves about 3.3 km of submarine cable across the three locations.
Why This Matters
Live on one of these lakes or in Obadjiwan 15E? This project could finally bring high-speed internet to your home. Underwater cables mean construction in the lake—something nearby residents and the First Nation community may want to weigh in on.
What Could Change
If approved, Bell could install submarine fibre optic cables totalling about 3.3 km across three water bodies. Residents in these remote areas would gain access to high-speed internet service.
Key Issues
- Should Bell be permitted to install underwater cables in these lakes?
- What environmental protections should apply to the submarine cable installation?
Indigenous Consultation
This consultation requires engagement with Indigenous communities under the Crown's duty to consult.