High-Speed Internet Infrastructure for Seven Saskatchewan First Nations

Official title: New Towers Construction, Upgrade single tower & New Fibre Installation

Closed Regulations & Permits Indigenous & Northern Technology & Digital
SaskTel wants to bring high-speed internet to seven First Nations communities in Saskatchewan. The project includes building a new 30-meter cell tower on Thunderchild First Nation, upgrading an existing tower on Big Island Lake Cree Nation, and installing 85 km of fiber optic cable to connect homes and businesses.

Why This Matters

Live in one of these communities? This could mean reliable high-speed internet for the first time. That's access to online learning, telehealth, remote work, and staying connected with family. Seven First Nations would get the same internet access many urban Canadians take for granted.

What Could Change

If approved, SaskTel would build new telecommunications infrastructure across seven First Nations reserves. Homes and businesses in Thunderchild, Big Island Lake Cree Nation, Sweetgrass, Stanley Mission, Southend, Kinistin Saulteaux Nation, and Grandmother's Bay would get fiber optic connections. Construction would involve directional drilling and trenching along existing roads.

Key Issues

  • Should a new 30-meter telecommunications tower be built on Thunderchild First Nation?
  • Should eight new antennas be added to the existing tower on Big Island Lake Cree Nation?
  • Should 85 km of fiber optic cable be installed across seven First Nations communities?

Indigenous Consultation

This consultation requires engagement with Indigenous communities under the Crown's duty to consult.