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Nova Scotia realtors call for improved rural internet service

Nova Scotia realtors call for improved rural internet service

Realtors say it is already difficult enough to sell home in rural Nova Scotia, but issues with poor internet service are making it that much more difficult, according to the president of the Nova Scotia Association of Realtors.

President Gord Burns says the issues are greatest along the south shore and in Cape Breton.

He says a lack of service in some rural areas prevents some people from buying.

"In some places, the people simply walk away," said Burns. "They will not buy the home because it doesn't have internet service."

Burns says Eastlink's recent decision to implement a data cap on rural internet access is another blow.

Eastlink's Rural Connect service is $46.95 a month, and provides service to Annapolis, Hants, Digby, Yarmouth, Queens, Lunenburg, Shelburne and Kings counties.

In August, internet packages will be capped at 15 GB a month. Every GB over will mean a $2 fee, up to a maximum of $20 extra each month.

Burns would like to see the cap scrapped.

Eastlink declined to speak with CBC News about Burns' complaints.

As well, Burns would like to see the province step in and work with companies to make sure that internet access is equal across the province.