Satellite technology is already available and can cover localized problems that are really out of contact. Actually, that is its strength, especially in the Canadian north and the most remote regions.
Currently, we are not ready to support telecommunications by deploying optical fibre. As we see it, cell technology provides alternate solutions on a smaller scale. Previously, you had to systematically build very large infrastructures in order to provide service. One cell tower requires an investment of about $500,000, plus the ongoing costs of upkeep and repair.
With the advent of what we call “small-cell transmission”, we can now do things with almost surgical precision. So we can provide services to areas of 250 square metres. So I believe that, if we become directly involved with rural areas, we will indeed be able to open the doors to those small-cell technologies that should, right off the bat, serve at least the centre, the heart, of all the villages where there is a problem.