18 August 2011
Tusket, Nova Scotia
The Honourable Bernard Valcourt, Minister of State for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and La Francophonie, today announced funding for the construction of a track and field facility to host the finals of the 2012 Jeux de l’Acadie games in Municipality of the District of Argyle. Senator Gerald Comeau and West Nova MP Greg Kerr joined Minister Valcourt for the announcement.
“The economy is our government’s top priority. We recognize that investments in community infrastructure help to build strong and vibrant communities and contribute to economic growth,” said Minister Valcourt. “This new track and field facility will allow the community to host the finals of the 2012 Jeux de l’Acadie and be a legacy project that the community and local families will benefit from for years to come.”
The Municipality of the District of Argyle will host the finals of 2012 Jeux d l’Acadie final games from June 29 to July 3, 2012. The games attract more than 1,200 young athletes from across the Atlantic Provinces, 700 coaches, chaperones, and officials from outside the region, and 800 local volunteers. The track, which will be located at École Secondaire Par-en-Bas in Tusket, will have a 400m inside running track with 6 lanes, as well as a section of 8 lanes for the 100m events. The track and field facility will also be equipped to host discus, javelin, shot put, high jump and long jump events. Stands for spectators, designated areas for judges and sports officials, and washroom facilities will also be constructed.
ACOA’s investment of $200,000 is being provided through the Innovative Communities Fund (ICF). In addition to ACOA’s funding, the Province of Nova Scotia is investing $120,000 and the Municipality of the District of Argyle is investing $100,000 in the project.
“This track represents a tremendous opportunity for our community,” said Warden Aldric d’Entremont, Municipality of the District of Argyle. “It gives young athletes a place to develop skills, where community members can watch the action, where volunteers can offer their time, skill and energy, and where crowds can enjoy the talent and many amenities of our community.”
It is expected that the Games will be a major economic driver, generating approximately $2 million in local revenues during the five-day event. The Municipality of the District of Argyle will also have the capacity to host other events in the facility in the coming years.
FOR BROADCAST USE:
The Honourable Bernard Valcourt, Minister of State for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and La Francophonie, today announced that ACOA is investing $200,000 to construct a track and field facility at École Secondaire Par-en-Bas in Tusket in the Municipality of Argyle. The facility will host the finals of the 2012 Jeux de l’Acadie games from June 29 to July 3, 2012. The Games are expected to generate approximately $2 million in local revenues for the area.
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INFORMATION:
Andrea Richer
Press Secretary
Office of Minister Valcourt
613-790-3637
Christopher Brooks
Manager, Communications and Outreach
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-426-4790/902- 789-5184 (cell)
Email : Chris.Brooks@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
