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Wifi considered for Gwaii Haanas

By David Geselbracht--Gwaii Haanas may someday have wireless internet, as many national parks are moving in that direction, but that is yet to be decided.Parks Canada is bringing the internet to several parks this year, mostly high-profile ones such as Banff, Jasper and Pacific Rim.But here on Haida Gwaii, there's no decision yet."This initiative is only in the exploratory phase and Parks Canada will consider proposals before deciding how to proceed," said Gwaii Haanas spokesperson Heather Ramsay, "no decision has been made about whether Gwaii Haanas will be getting wireless internet at this time."Wifi will be expanded to parks based on needs expressed by visitors, according to Parks Canada. Wifi internet services are now common in the tourism and hospitality industry. Many visitors who come to national parks expect to find internet, but instead often find connectivity gaps, said Parks Canada. So "Parks Canada wants to contribute filling this gap for their visitors so they can stay in touch with their friends and family, plan their trip on the go, share their experiences as they travel, and even stay in touch with work."However, this does not mean internet connections will be found on remote mountain peaks or in hidden forest valleys."(Wifi Internet) will be installed at key locations where visitors already tend to congregate such as visitor centres and front country campgrounds," said Parks Canada.By the end of 2014 there is expected to be 25 to 50 wireless locations in parks across Canada, and up to 100 locations available by 2016. Most of parks that will have WiFi are still to be determined.