 |
|
|
VICTORIA – The Premier’s Technology Council released its sixth report today, highlighting progress made in unleashing B.C.’s potential as a global technology leader.
The council notes the Province has made significant advances in several priority areas, including:
· Bridging the Digital Divide: since 2002, broadband access has been extended to 47 communities, with another 65 to be connected this year and all B.C. communities to be connected by the end of 2006. · E-health: over 100 patients every month benefit from telehealth programs in more than 50 communities, providing better care and avoiding the time and cost of traveling to a regional centre. · Industry marketing and development: the Premier’s participation in marketing activities by Leading Edge B.C. at the BIO2004 exhibition in San Francisco in June raised B.C.’s profile as Canada’s fastest growing biotechnology centre. Similarly, support for the Hydrogen Highway initiative will help expand the province’s position as a global centre for hydrogen fuel-cell research and development.
In preparing its sixth report, the council participated in ten regional consultation forums around the province and conducted an e-learning roundtable in Victoria. The report includes recommendations based on these sessions, including suggestions for further expanding broadband connections, e-health and e-learning, and advancing key industry sectors like life sciences and alternative energy.
The Premier’s Technology Council was established in August 2001 to advise the government on issues related to the advancement and application of technology in British Columbia.
- 30 -
The report is posted on the Premier's Web site at http://www.gov.bc.ca/prem/. Follow the links to Premier's Technology Council.
| ||||||||||||
