WHEREAS the provincial government has declared that all British Columbians should have 911 access for emergency reasons and many mountainous regions of the province do not have access to 911 via cell phones; AND WHEREAS cell phone delivery operates on line of sight from the nearest tower, and this line of sight coverage is not available in many areas of the province due to the cost involved: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the provincial government be requested to consider partnering with a telecommunications company to provide consistent and reliable cell phone coverage in all areas of the province that currently do not have coverage.
Ministry of Public Safety Solicitor General Delivery of phone service in British Columbia is the responsibility of the telecommunication industry. It may not be economically viable for the telecommunication industry to increase coverage in areas with a low population base. The Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General has been examining various issues related to the 911 emergency service provision. Further work is required to fully consider all options related to the provision of 911 cellular coverage in all areas of the Province. The work will be done in consultation with UBCM, local and regional governments, the telecommunications industry, emergency service partners and other interested parties.