REGINA – Access Communications is using National Co-op Week to celebrate and reflect on the contributions co-operatives, like itself, have in their communities.
The company (long ago called Cable Regina) has operated as a not-for-profit community-owned co-operative since 1978 and has grown and diversified to become a market leader and one of Saskatchewan's largest telecommunications companies. It connects 235 communities across the province over its hybrid fibre network by offering wired broadband Internet, point-to-point and wireless broadband Internet across 160,000 sq. km. of rural areas of Saskatchewan; along with TV, phone and security monitoring.
For what its worth, Canada has a vibrant co-op communications sector in rural regions with companies such as Westman Communications (Brandon, Man. and surrounding areas in southern Manitoba), CCAP (Stoneham-et-Tewkesbury and nearby regions north of Quebec City), and Quadro Communications (Kirkton, Ont. and surrounding regions in southwestern Ontario), among others.
Access is guided by an elected board of directors from across Saskatchewan and as a not-for-profit, community owned co-operative, 100% of its earnings are reinvested in Saskatchewan each year. "Every penny earned is reinvested into the services we provide and into broadening our Access7 community channel programming," said Jim Deane, CEO, in a release. The company has invested more than $100 million of its earnings back into its network in the past five years.
Co-op membership is open to any resident located in an Access service area who is 18 years of age and older and is a Canadian citizen. Also, any organization with community, member or patron service objectives may apply to become a member organization.
As well, 5% of Access’ broadcast revenues are reinvested back into community programming on Access7, which engages local community groups and individuals to produce their own shows with the supporting expertise of the Access7 production staff. Over 55% of content is produced by local volunteers.
