Telecommunications and economic development: A case study of the district of Algoma, northern Ontario

The deployment of telecommunications infrastructure as a means of creating economic development opportunities and employment is a high priority for the Federal and Ontario governments, as well as the Algoma District Community Network (ADnet).  This paper intends to examine and analyze the policy goals of both Canada and Ontario with respect to telecommunications and economic development in the Algoma District. Through an examination of potential users of telecommunications infrastructure, policies at each level of government and funding programs this paper will examine the Algoma experience in relation to meeting their objectives, specifically the economic development objective.  The paper will conclude with recommendations with respect to this policy deficiency. Keywords : telecommunications, infrastructure, policy, Algoma District Community Network (ADnet)