Batchewana First Nation becomes a player in rural telecom push

The leadership of Batchewana First Nation has announced a partnership with Northern Rural Networks to form a new Canada-wide telecommunications company, Batchewana Telecom.  

Batchewana Telecom will provide reliable high-speed internet, telephone, and TV services to First Nations and rural communities throughout Canada at affordable prices, according to a news release.

Batchewana Telecom's current network consists of more than 40 communication towers providing telecommunication services to customers from Goulais Bay to Manitoulin Island. 

Batchewana Telecom also provides services to First Nation and rural communities in Saskatchewan.

“Our First Nation is comprised of four land bases, two of which are somewhat isolated, so accessing affordable, reliable high-speed internet has been a serious issue,” said BFN Chief Dean Sayers. 

When the opportunity to create their own telecommunications company was presented, he said they did not hesitate in the chance to provide members with these essential services. 

Batchewana Telecom offers competitive rates for on- and off-reserve members and other First Nations, as well as customers throughout rural Ontario and Canada, he added. 

“Our partnership with Northern Rural Networks will create economic prosperity and opportunities for Batchewana First Nation,” Chief Sayers said. 

Added Lucas Balemba, president of Northern Rural Networks: “Batchewana Telecom has the opportunity to develop a First Nation-owned cross Canada network infrastructure to provide affordable high-speed internet service to First Nation and rural communities.”

Batchewana First Nation Is comprised of four land bases: Rankin, Goulais Bay, Obadjiwan, and Whitefish Island.

Northern Rural Networks is a mid-sized national telecommunications company based in Bancroft, Ont. The company is primarily focused on providing reliable telecommunication services to rural Ontario and Canada.