May 15, 1998
(Executive Council)

Funding for Canada Games Centre Annex announced

The federal and provincial governments today announced funding for a $2.75 million dollar annex to the Canada Games Centre in Corner Brook. The announcement was made by Gerry Byrne, MP Humber-St. Barbe-Baie Verte on behalf of the Government of Canada, and Bob Mercer, MHA-Humber East on behalf of the province of Newfoundland and Labrador.

"The annex will greatly enhance the ability to the Canada Games Centre to provide a top-notch complete service both during the winter games and beyond," said Bob Mercer. "We are pleased to be a part of a project that will bring greater economic benefits to the region, and provide a further facility for meetings, conventions, and sporting events."

The funding for the annex is provided by the following sources: $1 million from the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency Business Development Program; $1 million from the Canada - Newfoundland Strategic Regional Diversification Cooperation Agreement (SRDA); and $750,000 from the Canada Winter Games Host Society.

"The 25,000 square foot annex will make the Canada Games Centre one of the largest convention facilities in Eastern Canada," noted Bob Mercer. "It will give unsurpassed flexibily for a myriad of uses, increasing the revenue generating capacity of the facility and promoting economic activity for the entire region. We are pleased to be a part of it."

Contact: Heidi Bonnell, Director of Communications, (709) 729-3564

1998 05 15                              10:25 a.m.