High speed internet for all Canadians by 2025.
That is one of the pillars of Conservative leader Erin O’Toole’s plan for rural Canada which he revealed Monday afternoon in Belleville.
With regional Conservative candidates, including Bay of Quinte’s Ryan Williams and Hastings Lennox and Addington’s Shelby Kramp-Neuman, looking on, O’Toole said the last year has made it abundantly clear that high speed internet is a necessity.
He added the Liberals’ plan for universal high speed internet by 2030 isn’t good enough.
“Canadians cannot wait nine years. They deserve action now. Ontario and Quebec have moved ahead on their own. They’re tired of waiting. Too many Canadians still lack adequate internet access. We will put a stop the the endless delays, beauracracy, and we will become a true partner to the provinces, delivering broadband across the country.”
He also said his party would tackle rural crime.
“It’s time for a government that will ensure that families living in small towns and in rural areas feel safe in their homes and on their farms. We will tackle rural crime and ensure that criminals who take advantage of someone’s distance from emergency services pay a price for that.”
He also said a Conservative government would promote rural and remote parts of the country through its tourism strategy.
“We will ensure that Canada’s tourism strategy supports rural tourism and encourages Canadians and visitors from around the world to explore remote parts of the country, including hidden gems in Canada. Like Prince Edward County, like Quinte. These are gems we need to share.”
Other parts of the Conservatives’ plans for rural Canada include appointing a Minister of Rural Affairs and setting aside a portion of federal infrastructure funds specifically for projects in rural areas.
Federal Conservative leader Erin O’Toole speaks with Bay of Quinte candidate Ryan Williams, Northumberland Peterborough South MP Philip Lawrence, Hastings Lennox and Addington candidate Shelby Kramp-Neuman and Peterborough Kawartha candidate Michelle Ferreri during a stop in Belleville, August 9,2021. (Photo: Quinte News/Alana Cameron)
