Telecommunication Developments

In Keewaytinook Okimakanak

What’s Happening and Where

Red Lake, November 8-12, 1999

What We’ve Been Working On

• Making sure that everyone in K.O First Nations has equal access to reliable telephone, fax, and computing services.

• Building a broadband connection between local K.O. knowledge and economies and the rest of the world.

• Using telecommunications to support community development and well-being

Access at Schools

RESULT: Shows how a specific use (education) can provide many benefits.

• Began installation of satellite-based internet workstations in October 1996.

• Extension of computer networking in K.O. schools.

• Investment of $95,000 per year.

• Distributed support for users and technology in 60 First Nations communities.

Community Networking• Community Networking

begins in February 1997 and was expanded to Nursing Stations, Band Offices, NAPS in 1999.

• Creation of Community Area Networks.

• Technical support at a distance by KNET.

• Development and installation of wireless networking technology.

• Local community access sites provide e-mail and web browsing.

• Investment of $620,000.

RESULT: Introduces shared network use and access to local training at the community level.

Connecting Communities• Began 1998-99• Digital upgrade completed to Poplar Hill and Deer Lake• Digital upgrade to North Spirit targeted for Nov 99• Fort Severn Digital upgrade approved• Keewaywin funding partially obtained• Total investment of $3.1 million + Bell Canada’s

investment of $5.4 million

RESULT: Establishes K.O. communities as leaders in First Nations digital broadband development.

Capacity Building• Local people trained in network support and

community use of computers• Trained people in 15 other First Nations• About 2 1/2 people per K.O. community trained

since 1996• Total investment of $1.1 million dollars

RESULT: Preparing people in communities to participate in a knowledge-based economy.

Planning and Consultation I• Began in 1998

• Total investment of $600,000• North of Red Lake study identifies telecom access

problems;• Submission to the CRTC proposes special subsidy

for remote and First Nations communities

• Community Consultation for Broadband Study documents local telecom uses and needs.

RESULT: Demonstration of demand and development of solutions.

Planning and Consultation II

• Design and business plan for broadband network connecting K.O. communities

• Telehealth demonstration projects and consultation

• SMART proposal to introduce new electronic services in K.O. communities

• Volnet proposal to distribute and connect First Nations community organizations.

• OLT proposal to support community development through telecommunications.

RESULT: Laying the ground work to finance expanded services.

What Do We Want To Do With This Technology?

That’s why we’re here!

…to plan Keewaytinook Okimakanak First Nations’ telecommunication strategy and future directions.