The Manitoba government has announced a new agreement aimed at expanding high-speed internet access across northern Manitoba.

The province says Manitoba Hydro will provide Valley Fiber access to two unused strands of its fibre-optic network for up to 20 years, helping the company expand broadband service to underserved communities.

According to the province, the agreement will allow Valley Fiber to fulfill commitments under the federal Universal Broadband Fund and improve or provide service to more than 3,500 households across 11 northern communities.

Innovation and New Technology Minister Mike Moroz says reliable internet is essential for education, health care, business and everyday life, adding that many northern communities have waited too long for dependable service.