THUNDER BAY — Insufficient wireless network access in rural areas hinders businesses from competing digitally, limiting economic growth and restricting residents from accessing services like online education and telehealth.
The Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce has partnered with the Timmins and Greater Sudbury Chambers of Commerce on advice that has been adopted as Canadian Chamber policy and says they will continue to advocate to the federal government on what Robinson calls a "vital issue." "There needs to be a focus on rural and remote areas, critical transportation routes and workforce programs that address shortages in skilled talent."
That includes consultation with Indigenous leaders and First Nations communities as partners in policy development for a more economically inclusive and prosperous future.