The Nova Scotia CAP Association has written to the four local Conservative
> MPs asking for help in starting discussions with the Federal Government.
>
> "The Federal Government has taken a narrow view of what the CAP Network is
> and what it can do." says Eric Stackhouse, Association Chair. "We asked
> government officials over and over to talk to us so we can work with them
> on government priorities such as employability, youth skills, and technology
> training for small business, but they refused. Now we are asking our local
> Conservative MPs to help get that dialogue started."
>
> CAP funding was cut effective immediately by Industry Canada on April 5th.
> Since then CAP site users have been voicing their objections to their
> elected officials while CAP sites and networks nationwide are struggling
> with what this means to thousands of communities.
>
> There are 209 CAP sites in Nova Scotia, most in rural communities,
> providing Internet access, computer use, wireless, and training. Over 254 youth are
> hired each year through CAP to provide training and work on technology
> related projects. The Association has been in discussions with the
> Province of Nova Scotia about using CAP sites to help with employment and
> productivity; with positive results. The Association believes the Federal
> Government should be looking to use the CAP infrastructure as well.
>
> "We have heard from one MP so far and we are cautiously optimistic." says
> Stackhouse. "But this is an urgent matter and we would like to hear from
> others. But we need to talk and surely that's not too much to ask."
>
> For further information:
>
> Charlotte Janes, Vice Chair
>
> Nova Scotia CAP Association
>
> cjanes@valleylibrary.ca
>
> (902) 665-2995 ext. 222
>
> Cell (902) 532 8707
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