Librarians say internet cut will hurt most vulnerable users

Librarians in Newfoundland and Labrador are not happy with Ottawa's decision to stop giving money to a program that helps provide free internet access.

The Community Access Program helps 96 libraries in the province provide free internet access to members of the public.

The Newfoundland and Labrador Library Association said the cut will hurt those who need the free service the most.

"The NLLA is concerned that without CAP funding, people in rural and remote areas of the province, low-income earners, and seniors may not have equitable access to internet services," the organization said in a statement.

The federal government has argued that CAP is no longer needed because most Canadians now have ready internet access.

The NLLA, which said there are still many people who have no other way to get online, has urged Canadians to lobby the federal government or visit the Save CAP website to speak out.