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NEWS RELEASE (CNS679) -->> TEAM SOUTH WEST--CABINET COMMITTEE TO EXPAND INFORMATION HIGHWAY TEAM SOUTH WEST--CABINET COMMITTEE TO EXPAND INFORMATION HIGHWAY ----------------------------------------------------------------- The Team South West Committee of cabinet recently met with Maritime Tel & Tel on enhancing telecommunications services and regional economic development in South Western Nova Scotia. Chair of Team South West Allister Surette, met with MT&T officials to outline the need to improve telecommunications technology in Annapolis County. The need to upgrade switching technology from analog to digital was a key recommendation of the Western Valley Development Authority and business leaders who met with Team South West last month in Digby to explore economic prospects for the region. "Digital systems are essential to effective, cost-efficient telecommunications with our markets," said business leader Kevin Temple, whose company sells its products on the international market. "The current analog switching systems and existence of party lines in the counties of Digby and Annapolis are impediments to competitiveness." Maritime Tel & Tel is already in the process of eliminating party line service in the few areas where it remains. Mr. Surette said his discussions with MT&T were promising. "MT&T is committed to working with the local business community and educational institutions to support the infrastructure and services necessary to take advantage of business opportunities," said the minister. "MT&T has always been a major player in the economic development of the province and I was pleased to hear of their willingness to partner with the South West region to improve competitiveness, facilitate economic growth and support local communities." "MT&T is committed to helping Nova Scotia build a bright future in the new economy and the information age." said MT&T Innovations vice president Denis Connor. "We are committed to working with government, communities and the private sector to find solutions, solve problems and take advantage of opportunities that create or sustain jobs and economic development." "South Western Nova Scotia has many competitive advantages. The quality of life, a clean environment and a stable bilingual workforce are all natural attractions to businesses including in the growing knowledge based and telecommunications sectors," said Mr. Surette. "It is important that we work as partners with leaders like MT&T on the common objective of economic growth for South West Nova Scotia." The next step will be the formation of an alliance of the business community and educational institutions with MT&T to assess telecommunication needs and to develop a promotional package aimed at attracting businesses to the region. -30- Contact: Paul McEachern 902-424-2575 trp Oct. 18, 1996 - 1:20 p.m.