Copper wire thefts leaving rural N.S. residents without phone, internet service

Residents in the rural communities of Joggins and Lower Cove in Nova Scotia found themselves without landline and internet services over the weekend due to copper wire theft. This has been an ongoing issue, with at least five similar incidents reported in the past year.

Laurie Glenn Norris expressed concern for her 93-year-old father in Lower Cove, who relies on his landline phone for communication. She highlighted the danger of not being able to call for help in case of emergencies, as the copper lines are often cut during weekends, taking several days for Bell technicians to repair.

Cumberland County councillor Carrie Lee shared the frustration of residents, emphasizing the impact of losing connectivity to the outside world. She mentioned residents suggesting the installation of trail cameras on poles to deter thieves, similar to initiatives taken by Maritime Electric in P.E.I.

Bell Canada issued an apology to customers for the inconvenience caused by the thefts, noting the increasing trend of copper theft. However, residents like nursing student Allie Duguay, who relies on internet for her studies, are still waiting for repairs to be completed. Duguay highlighted the disruption to her online program and the vulnerability of residents without access to vital services.

As investigations continue, residents are left feeling unsafe and anxious about the potential consequences of ongoing copper thefts. The RCMP is aware of the situation and is working to address the issue. It is crucial for Bell Canada and authorities to take proactive measures to secure the lines and prevent future incidents that could jeopardize the safety and well-being of residents in these rural communities.