It's about critical infrastructure. If we talk about the economic prosperity of the country, we can't help but talk about broadband connectivity for everyone. We can't have haves and have-nots on this critical issue, quite frankly.
Ms. Jones, for the examples I cited, I suppose Stratford could be considered urban, but Olds, Alberta, has 8,500 people. The region of Waterloo, just down the road from me in London, is now investing in the SWIFT network as a way of connecting very small towns and villages. I used the example of SWIFT before. I think certainly when it comes to.... The federal government contributed money. The then provincial government contributed significant funds. Between the two governments it was about $180 million. I'm going on memory here.
Municipalities have a critical role to play as well. I think the point needs to be made that the federal government certainly has to be at the table with these things, and is, but we need continuing municipal support. The Eastern Ontario Wardens' Caucus, your initiative, is a great example of what is possible as we continue to grapple with this challenge in the country.
I think, Mr. Chair, I've exhausted my seven minutes.