Yes, and I'm pleased to report that
our government has pledged to work hard and provide new opportunities to all Canadians through that program. That is why we have extended it into 2007-08. We extended it because we have listened to what Canadians and parliamentarians representing all parties have said. This is an important program in remote areas that allows communities to access Internet. Therefore, I am very pleased to announce today that we have taken steps to ensure that this program will receive the necessary funding over the next fiscal year.
Our government has shown its commitment to this program by extending its funding. We are responding to the needs that are out there by providing funds for the coming year. I can assure you that current program recipients now know that funding is available, and will be in a position to sign contribution agreements with their partners.
As you know, government budgets are approved on an annual basis. For the time being, no decision has been made with respect to the funding of this program in future years. So, we're talking about guaranteed funding for fiscal 2007-08. As regards future years, we will be making a further assessment as part of next year's budget process.