Editor’s note: In CityWest’s press release regarding the incident that follows they state, “see image (above) – marine vessel charts indicate an absence of fishing vessels in the vicinity. However, crabbing pots are observed directly on top of the Haida Gwaii subsea fiber line and right-of-way.”

CityWest has not responded to Cortes Currents repeated requests for an update regarding the installation of internet services on Cortes Island. One of their press releases suggests this began in November ‘with a select group of beta testers.’ Some homes in Mansons Landing and Squirrel Cove informed Cortes Currents they are currently using CityWest, other Cortes residents recently stated they are still waiting.

By Seth Forward, Prince Rupert Northern View, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

CityWest has reestablished most of its service to Haida Gwaii after a month of interruptions have plagued the archipelago since Dec. 24, the company said in a Jan. 24 statement. 

The internet and phone service provider said two sub-sea cables were damaged by crab traps in the Hecate Strait, though the Area A Crab Association firmly disputes the claims, calling them “unlikely, if not impossible.”