July 17, 1998
(Executive Council)

Premier Brian Tobin and Kevin Aylward, MHA - St. George's Stephenville East, took part in a sod turning ceremony today at the Minnesota Drive site of the new Stephenville Arena. The new 1,400 seat arena will replace the existing Stephenville Gardens.

"This new facility is much needed and will serve the entire west coast area," noted Premier Tobin. "The arena will play an integral part in the 1999 Canada Winter Games and the 2000 Commonwealth Judo Championships, and will give Stephenville a competitive advantage when vying to host other events in the future."

The new facility will include an Olympic size ice surface, and house all the necessary facilities required to host sporting and entertainment events.

"The $3 million funding is being provided by a 50/50 provincial/municipal arrangement," said Minister Aylward. "The experience that we gain from the Canada Winter Games and from hosting the Commonwealth Judo Championships in the year 2000 will give Stephenville a network of volunteers, and will make the town even more attractive for subsequent events."

The tenders for work on the various components of the arena are in the process of being prepared and/or called. Construction is expected to begin soon and the arena will be ready by February for the 1999 Canada Winter Games.

Contact: Heidi Bonnell, (709) 729-3564

                David Wells, (709) 643-8598.

1998 07 17                                      1:35 p.m.