NLIS 4
February 8, 2005
(Transportation and Works)
(Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs)
 

Ministers reiterate policy on use of satellite phones

Tom Rideout, Minister of Transportation and Works, and Trevor Taylor, Minister responsible for Labrador Affairs, today reiterated the guidelines pertaining to the operation of satellite phones as provided by the provincial government to travelers on the Trans Labrador Highway, between Happy Valley-Goose Bay and Labrador West.

Minister Rideout said: "The concept of enhancing traveler safety by using satellite phones on the Trans Labrador Highway was proposed and implemented in 2003, when my department provided 60 satellite phones to local hotels in Labrador West, Churchill Falls and Happy Valley-Goose Bay at the suggestion of the Labrador City-Wabush Rotary Club. To date, government has spent approximately $130,000 on these phones for purchase, maintenance, repairs, replacement and operational costs.

"The phones are loaned to those traveling the Trans Labrador Highway, at no cost, for a 24-hour period. As such, the phones continue to provide a valuable service," said Minister Rideout.
"They are for personal safety and can be used to call 911."

If the phone is used to call 911, the call will go to the satellite provider. This call is then forwarded to either the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary or the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, as appropriate. Once the call is received by the police, they give the call a priority rating and will respond accordingly.

This service is a one-way communication tool, as these phones can be used to dial 911 exclusively. If a tow truck is necessary, the individual or individuals involved will be required to use alternate means to arrange for it.

Minister Rideout said, "If assistance is available to stranded individuals before the police arrive, they should avail of it."

Affordable new technologies such as satellite telephones can improve the quality of life for Labradorians, added Minister Taylor. "It wasn�t very long ago that cellular phones, let alone satellite phones, were uncommon," said the minister. "The provincial government is funding a pragmatic solution to a safety issue that, until recently, was an option that simply didn�t exist."

Media contacts:
   Lori Lee Oates, ABC, Transportation and Works, (709) 729-3015, 690-8403
   Alex Marland, Labrador Affairs, (709) 729-3733, 690-6047

2005 02 08                                           1:10 p.m.


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