My question is to the Minister of Infrastructure. Reliable access to high-speed Internet is a necessity for all Ontarians. It keeps family and friends in touch with each other, helps us work and study, and connects Ontario businesses with customers worldwide. Connecting people in rural, remote and Indigenous communities from every part of our province to reliable high-speed Internet will help create good jobs and ensure that we build an economy that remains a world leader.

Speaker, can the Minister of Infrastructure please elaborate on what investments our government is making to ensure that the people of my riding have access to high-speed Internet service?

We know that Internet is not a luxury in this day and age; it’s a necessity. Access to fast, reliable Internet ensures that everyone is connected to vital services like health care and education, and allows everyone to participate in the digital economy.

I understand that the Ministry of Infrastructure has taken a new, modern approach to procurement—an approach that guarantees fiscal responsibility for the taxpayer of Ontario. Could the Minister of Infrastructure elaborate on what her ministry is doing to expand Internet service for all families across Ontario?

I would like to introduce Zane Colt, a former staff member at the ministry of northern development, mines, natural resources, forestry and energy, when we were all of that.