Fibre Internet Installation for Six First Nations in Saskatchewan
Official title: New Fibre Installation - Central and Southeastern SK
RFNow Inc. wants to bring high-speed fibre internet to six First Nations communities in central and southeastern Saskatchewan. The project involves burying about 5,604 km of fibre optic cable underground, connecting homes and businesses in Wahpeton Dakota Nation, Lac La Ronge, One Arrow, Ahtahkakoop, Big River, and Muskeg Lake Cree Nation.
Why This Matters
Live in one of these communities? This could mean reliable high-speed internet for the first time. Better connectivity helps with remote work, online learning, and accessing health services. It's a big deal for rural and Indigenous communities often left behind in digital infrastructure.
What Could Change
If approved, fibre optic cables would be buried along existing roadways using drilling and trenching. Homes and businesses in six First Nations would get direct fibre connections. Construction would pass through Arran, Hudson Bay, and Pike Lake areas.
Key Issues
- Should the fibre installation project proceed in these First Nations communities?
- Are there environmental or land-use concerns with the proposed cable route?
Indigenous Consultation
This consultation requires engagement with Indigenous communities under the Crown's duty to consult.