Federal government urged to spend more on rural housing, connectivity, public safety
The federal government needs to invest more on housing, digital connectivity and public safety, according to a report from the country's largest municipalities organization.
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The Federation of Canadian Municipalities released the report Saturday, calling on the federal government to invest to close the gaps between urban and rural Canada, which includes access to reliable internet and cell service, infrastructure and transportation and housing.
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The wide-ranging report also calls on the government to reform and invest in public safety, including the need for bail reform and adequate police staffing, as well as climate adaptation and disaster mitigation projects.
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There is also a need for the government to update Canada's connectivity strategy and to achieve universal broadband and cellular connectivity.
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The report argues that more public support for digital connectivity would help rural Canadians to participate in remote work, grow rural businesses and provide better access to government and emergency services like education and health care.
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Infrastructure and transportation is identified as another major gap, with roads, bridges and tunnels across rural municipalities needing about $83 billion in upgrades.
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And there is a strong need to 'unlock' the rural economy through diversified trade relationship both internationally and interprovincially.
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Climate adaptation and mitigation remains a significant concern for many rural communities. Rural municipalities across Saskatchewan and Manitoba are currently facing existential threats from wildfires.
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More than 80 per cent of Ottawa's total land area is rural, including agricultural lands, mineral deposits, and wetlands and woodlands. Rural Ottawa includes 26 villages and also includes a significant portion of the city's population
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In the capital region, a tornado in Dunrobin caused massive damage in the rural community within Ottawa. In 2021, a derecho tore through Ottawa, hitting several rural communities.
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Neal Comeau, chair of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, said in a news release that municipalities need to 'be at the table' for climate emergency planning.
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