REGINA – Access Communications announced this morning it is purchasing cable systems in 184 communities in the province.
Currently branded Persona and owned by Bragg Communications (whose primary brand is EastLink) the systems serve about 16,000 households in communities such as Lumsden, Balgonie, Pilot Butte, Melfort, Humboldt, Moosomin, Shaunavon, and Maple Creek, among others.
“Access Communications is committed to growth in the province of Saskatchewan through a capital investment of $125 million into the communications infrastructure across the province,” said Access president Jim Deane.
“This investment will create additional employment opportunities and will enhance the communities our co-operative serves through our core value of giving back. While the menu of services will vary across the province, throughout the next five years we plan to roll out the best quality entertainment and communications services available to these communities – including more digital and high definition cable television channels, enhanced high speed internet services, and new options in home phone service and home security.”
Access, which is a co-operative, also plans to launch its popular community channel, Access7, in each new community. Deane says Access7 will showcase the events and celebrations occurring in each community and region, and provides a unique opportunity for local expression.
“Access Communications’ longevity in the industry is proof that the co-operative business model works,” added Jan Marce, chair of the board of directors. “With the support of our membership, the leadership of our board of directors and a committed group of staff, Access Communications has continued to succeed in a highly competitive market for over thirty years. And, through our co-operative, we’re bringing local, Saskatchewan ownership to these communities. This latest investment into Saskatchewan further solidifies our commitment to the province, its people and its future.”
Access Communications Co-operative Limited is the 6th largest cable television provider in Canada (with about 80,000 subscribers) and the largest single television provider in Saskatchewan. Combined, the cable company has over 400 employees and volunteers serving 217 communities across Saskatchewan with offices in Regina, Estevan, Weyburn, Yorkton, North Battleford and La Ronge.
