CHARLOTTETOWN, Dec. 15 2009 -- Bell Aliant and the Government of PEI
confirmed the completion of the broadband infrastructure build to deliver
high-speed Internet to virtually all areas of the Island by the end of the
year. The $8.2 million project to extend broadband services across the Island
has benefited thousands of individuals and businesses across the Island -
from North Cape to East Point. Bell Aliant will work with customers in early
2010 to continue the installations of high-speed Internet.
    In addition, Bell Aliant and the Government of PEI are pleased to
announce the launch of the Rural Broadband Fund (RBF). The RBF is a five-year
strategic partnership to support innovation in information technology across
PEI.
    "Today I'm proud to announce that we'll be able to offer high-speed
Internet province-wide to our customers," says Bruce Howatt, Vice-President,
PEI, Bell Aliant. "Our employees from across the Island have worked very hard
to reach this important milestone. We are equally thrilled to help stimulate
technological innovation in PEI through the Rural Broadband Fund."
    More than 21,000 homes and businesses have been added to the broadband
coverage area in 2009.
    The project is part of the Government of PEI's ongoing commitment to
rural development. Access to Bell Aliant's broadband service will help
stimulate rural business activity and improve the quality of life for people
living in rural communities.
    "I am very proud that the provincial government has helped level the
technological playing field across our Island," Minister of Fisheries,
Aquaculture and Rural Development Neil LeClair said. "The provision of
high-speed internet services across our province will greatly assist economic
development in all parts of Prince Edward Island."

    The RBF is a strategic partnership between Bell Aliant and the Government
of PEI to support innovation in information technology, primarily focused on
communications and communications technology. Funding for the RBF will be
considered for one or two-year projects. Successful applicants are eligible
for a one-year, up to $50,000 award or a two-year, up to $100,000 award. The
call for applications will be publicized shortly in media outlets across the
Island. For more information on the RBF please visit
www.islandprosperity.com. The creation of the RBF was
publicly announced in
November 2008.

About Bell Aliant

    Bell Aliant (TSX: BA.UN) is one of North America's largest regional
communications providers and an Official Supporter of the Vancouver 2010
Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Through its operating entities it serves
customers in six Canadian provinces with innovative information,
communication and technology services including voice, data, Internet, video
and value-added business solutions. Through its xwave offices, Bell Aliant
also provides IT professional services and advanced technology solutions.
Bell Aliant's employees are committed to deliver the highest quality of
customer service, choice and convenience.


For further information: Peter Murchland, Communications and Public Affairs,
Bell Aliant, 1-877-487-3165, peter.murchland@bellaliant.ca; Geoff Townsend,
Premier's Office, Province of PEI, (902) 368-4400, gatownsend@gov.pe.ca