Statement from Minister Gehmair on Bell Mobility’s plans to invest in improved cellular service in Whitehorse

Minister of Economy, Tourism and Culture Jen Gehmair has issued the following statement:  

"Reliable cellular service is essential to support emergency management, health services, highway safety, government operations, business and day-to-day communications.

"After forming government, we began advocating for Yukoners and working to find solutions to improve the telecommunications infrastructure in the territory. This includes sharing the concerns of Yukoners with the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada and engaging in ongoing dialogue with Bell Mobility.  

"I am pleased to share that following conversations and constructive collaboration with Bell over the last several months, Bell has informed the Government of Yukon that it is planning to invest in two new cellular sites in Whitehorse.  

"The two new sites will improve 4G/5G wireless service, enhance network reliability, and improve indoor and outdoor coverage, capacity and data speeds for residents and businesses. They are expected to benefit over 9,000 Yukoners and are intended to help accommodate the city's continued growth and increasing demand for cellular services. We understand builds typically take 12 to 18 months, after sites are secured. As we learn more about the timing and progress of this initiative, we will coordinate with Bell to share updates with Yukoners.    

"In addition to constructing two new cellular sites for service in Whitehorse, Bell will continue upgrading existing infrastructure in the Yukon with next-generation equipment that will support increased capacity, enhanced network performance and expanded 5G capability.

"We welcome Bell’s investment to modernize the Yukon’s cellular network and its commitment to build two new cellular sites.  

"We recognize cellular service is an important issue across the Yukon including in rural communities. We will continue to work collaboratively with all stakeholders, including the federal government and other providers, to improve reliability and coverage.”