Rural towns disconnected from the world
Out from the mouths of politicians they spew forth their promises. Here are a few examples: ‘‘The Government is committed to supporting regions and providing them with the infrastructure they need to support local jobs and encourage investment’’, from Economic Development Minister Steven Joyce.
How about ‘‘fast broadband is enabling unprecedented economic opportunities for regional New Zealanders. It enables business to better connect with markets and customers both here and overseas while enjoying the lifestyle benefits of living outside the main centres,’’ from Communications Minister Amy Adams.
Over recent months the business community in Te Aroha and Morrinsville have called the Government to account and make good their statements over the rollout of UFB.
If the fiasco over UFB emerging in Morrinsville is an example of how this Government’s commitment is shown in a safe National seat, then they need to look to the United States as to what can happen quickly when people are dissatisfied.
I had the opportunity to visit businesses recently and you sense their frustration of doing business in Morrinsville.
Examples where sending a customer the specs of a large ticket item via the internet timed out because of insufficient bandwidth, or another loses out on major contracts because they cannot compete with other centres, the internet connection is as slow as a resource consent process.
How about losing customers because your internet phone system falls over part way through a call?
Websites promoting UFB are teasing people about how the tech- nology can improve their business.
But for business owners watching, it’s likened to be locked outside of the candy store watching your neighbours’ kids enjoy all the treats.
Simply put, the Government’s intent to provide UFB is admirable and already the infrastruc- ture is in place brought about by UFB for Schools.
So why is the Government taunting communities with the rollout of UFB being likened to an an expensive lottery?
It’s reliant on the telcos’ projections of how much future revenue can be generated, but it’s hurting local economies like Morrinsville.
Adams is correct, ‘‘people can live in rural communities and enjoy the lifestyle,’’ but realistically no business person will give up what they have to move to an area where they cannot compete.
If local businesses cannot compete here it will be them making the decision to move their business to another centre.
How does that thought sit with a Government committed to growing the regions?
Mike Bain is an experienced local government and business reporter for Fairfax community newspapers in Central Waikato.