Province launches first annual CAP Day

Education Minister Gerry Reid is pleased to announced that Saturday, May 10, has been designated Community Access Program (CAP) Day in Newfoundland and Labrador. Participating Community Access sites will be holding open houses and having demonstrations throughout the day to show their communities what is available at these centres. People are invited to drop by their local CAP site and learn about the services CAP centres provide.

"The Community Access Program provides a vital service to the people of this province," said Minister Reid. "It offers free Internet access and training in computer hardware and software technology at approximately 200 sites around the province. On Saturday, we celebrate the success of CAP over its seven year history and offer thanks to the dedicated individuals who make this valuable program work.

"Many of our CAP sites are staffed by volunteers who spend time providing this service to their communities and I commend them for that commitment. They recognize the social and economic benefits possible with the information highway. People can stay in touch with families far away, learn a practical skill, research business opportunities or stay connected with events happening around the world. For many people, particularly in rural and remote areas of this province, this is a significant opportunity for growth," added Minister Reid.

On May 10, participating CAP sites will be doing demonstrations throughout the day, holding training sessions, offering refreshments, and having give-aways. "I encourage everyone to take advantage of open houses throughout the province, drop into a CAP site and learn about the great work that is being done in these centres," said Minister Reid.

The Community Access Program is a joint initiative of the federal and provincial governments and is part of a larger initiative by the federal government to make Canada the most connected country in the world. CAP strongly supports the goals of the province�s Strategic Social Plan and is an important means by which communities can build capacity by providing a window on the virtual world.

Media contact: Elizabeth Matthews, Communications, (709) 729-0048, (709) 727-3438

2003 05 09                                        4:00 p.m.