Gaps in cell phone coverage hurt rural areas—MLA

Province-wide cell phone coverage is vital to encourage the growth of rural communities, said the Liberal MLA.

"The lack of cell service in these areas presents an economic obstacle for Nova Scotians and in some instances, public safety is being jeopardized."

Theriault said business owners and operators rely on cell phones and attracting new business to areas like Digby can be difficult.

"It's always a challenge for our rural business communities to expand," says Theriault. "Recognizing the lack of cell coverage as one of these economic roadblocks and addressing it will certainly make our rural areas that much more attractive."

Theriault said business isn't the only sector affected by lack of service, and argues that proper cell phone coverage would definitely aid emergency service providers such as firefighters and paramedics.

He said the provincial government has committed to making high-speed internet available to every household in Nova Scotia. "Rural cellular coverage is every bit as important and needs to be made a priority."