The provincial government says it is committed to finding solutions to ensure reliable cell phone coverage across the province.

That response comes on the heels of a scary situation over the weekend near Deer Lake where a man could not find a connection to call 911 after the boat he and his 91-year-old father were fishing in capsized. In the end, the man was able to call his uncle, with everyone coming out of the situation physically unscathed.

While cell service is a federal responsibility, the province says they are actively working with service providers and communities to find the best way to provide coverage for underserved rural communities and major roadways.

Government highlights several initiatives in recent years to improve coverage, including two successful cellular improvement calls – at a cost of over $8-million ($2.4 of which was provided by the province) – that enhanced service in 21 communities, and $2-million for improvements in Trinity East, Holyrood, and Hearts Delight-Islington.

As well, government has issued an expression of interest to expand a successful pilot program along the Burgeo Highway to other parts of the province in which solar-powered Wi-Fi hotspots are being used to provide cellular connectivity.