The NDP is calling on the Saskatchewan government to increase cell phone coverage in the province’s north.
Athabasca MLA Buckley Belanger says communities like Turnor Lake, Canoe Lake, Southend, Patuanak and Dillon have little or no coverage.
Belanger says many communities were ignored in recent 4G expansion announcements by SaskTel.
But he says pressure can be put on the government through petitions and letter-writing campaigns — and he promises the New Democrats will bring it up in the Saskatchewan Legislative Assembly, as well.
Belanger says cell phone coverage is needed so communities can grow — as it will connect northern people to the workforce and attract more people.
SaskTel spokesperson Andy Tate says initial discussions are already underway in those communities.
“We are actually at the analysis stage with all of those. We’re looking specificially at those communities to determine the business case and determine whether we can expand service to those locations.”
Tate adds SaskTel is also working with the federal government to bring broadband and 4G mobile service to 28 First Nations this year.