Released on September 12, 2007
Students at the SIAST Palliser campus in Moose Jaw now have expanded access to wireless Internet service thanks to the Saskatchewan! Connected initiative. Learning Minister Deb Higgins and Moose Jaw North MLA Glenn Hagel made the announcement in Moose Jaw today on behalf of Minister responsible for Information Technology Frank Quennell.
The Saskatchewan! Connected initiative offers users basic Internet service via a wireless Wi-Fi based network. The first phase of the initiative was launched in July with the service being made available in select business districts of Moose Jaw, Prince Albert, Regina and Saskatoon. The second phase involves the expansion of existing wireless networks in the post-secondary institutions of the four centres, and opening up their previously restricted wireless services to the general public.
"Saskatchewan! Connected is one of the many steps that have been taken to ensure our province is the best place for young people to live, work and build their futures," Higgins said. "Expanding wireless Internet access on post-secondary campuses will provide a more rewarding and enjoyable learning experience as they prepare for that future."
The Saskatchewan! Connected network is managed and operated by the government Information Technology Office and SaskTel. Portions of the network located in post-secondary schools will be maintained by each individual institution.
"The introduction of wireless Internet service to the downtown and the SIAST campus has helped add to Moose Jaw's reputation as one of the most progressive communities in Canada," Hagel said. "These kinds of initiatives are part of ensuring Saskatchewan citizens benefit from our province's economic boom."
The overall capital cost of installing and acquiring the network components in the four centres was $1.3 million, with annual operating costs of $339,000. The initiative was implemented as a direct result of input received from the hundreds of Saskatchewan young people that attended this year's Saskatchewan Youth Summit in Saskatoon.
-30-
For more information, contact:
Richard Murray
Information Technology Office
Regina
Phone: 306-787-9586
Email: rmurray@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-536-4758