The funding will be used to stimulate investment of up to $500 million to close gaps in cellular and broadband service in rural and remote communities.

Activity in Ontario bucked the national trend by increasing in most areas.

A seven-point declaration from the sector’s leaders calls on the federal government to invest in construction, accelerate funding, and prioritize zero-carbon construction.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said the funding is just a start as big city mayors say more must be done to cover significant financial losses.

Ontario and Quebec recorded massive drops in permit activity as a result of construction-site shut downs across both provinces.