April 29, 2005 Sackville, Nova Scotia Residents of Sackville, NS are poised to capitalize upon a host of new economic and recreational opportunities, thanks to an investment in their community. Through its Strategic Community Investment Fund (SCIF), the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) is supporting the Lake District Recreation Association, making an investment of $100,000 in the Sackville Arena. The money will be used for overall improvements to the facility. As a result of the planned upgrades, the facility will now be able to play a major role in attracting new economic and recreational activity to the area, including sporting and music events, an antique car show and an expanded winter carnival. Established in 1972, the Arena has long been a focal point for community events and activities. "This investment is a major shot in the arm for our community," says Percy Fawson, secretary of the Lake District Recreation Association. Fawson says the Arena enhancements, which include improvements to the mezzanine, kitchen and public washroom areas, will also make the facility accessible to people with disabilities. The Honourable Geoff Regan, MP for Halifax West and Minster of Fisheries and Oceans, announced ACOA's investment on behalf of the Honourable Joseph McGuire, Minister of ACOA. "The Sackville Arena has been a hub of social and economic activity in the area for over three decades," he said. "These improvements will promote a wider use of the arena, and pave the way for greater economic opportunity in the community." The Province of Nova Scotia is a partner in this project. SCIF, launched in 2000, is providing $135 million over five years to help communities in Atlantic Canada to create an environment that encourages and enhances the development of strategic sectors and the adoption of new technology and innovative practices. SCIF is a component of the Atlantic Investment Partnership, a five-year Government of Canada initiative designed to help Atlantic Canadians compete in the global, knowledge-based economy. FOR BROADCAST USE: The Honourable Geoff Regan today announced an investment of $100,000 in the Sackville Arena on behalf of the Honourable Joseph McGuire, Minister of ACOA. The Arena has long been a major centre of community life in the Sackville area. The ACOA investment will go towards major structural upgrades and overall improvements to the facility. According to a local community group, the new and improved Arena will help to attract economic and recreational opportunities to the area. - 30 - Valérie Poulin Director of Communications Office of the Honourable Joseph McGuire Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (613) 941-7241 David Harrigan Media Relations Officer ACOA (Nova Scotia) (902) 426-4238 Percy Fawson Lake District Recreation Association (902) 865-8898
