News release

Funding for Rink Upgrades, Improved Access for Girls in Hockey

Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage

NOTE: A list of organizations receiving funding follows this release.

Fourteen community rinks across the province are receiving critical upgrades that will extend their lifespan and create more access to sport and recreation, especially for women and girls.

The Province is investing $18.3 million, including nearly $8.2 million to the Canada Games Complex at Cape Breton University for a dedicated hockey hub for women and girls.

“Rinks are the heart of our communities,” said Brian Comer, Minister responsible for the Office of Addictions and Mental Health and MLA for Cape Breton East, on behalf of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage Minister Pat Dunn. “These upgrades will enhance the experience of every player and every family member who enjoys the rink. And it is a fantastic opportunity for more girls and women to play hockey.”

The Cape Breton County Arena in Sydney will receive $4.3 million for updates, including new washroom and changeroom facilities, and accessibility and energy efficiency upgrades. The Colchester Legion Stadium in Truro is receiving $1 million for repairs to reopen after it was damaged by hurricane Fiona.

Quotes:

“Increasing access and equity in sport is a big focus of ours. Giving people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities a chance to be active is critical to building a healthier province. These investments will help rinks across the province provide even more opportunities in their communities.”

– Pat Dunn, Minister of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage.

"This Government of Nova Scotia investment is a first in the nation and gamechanger for girls in sport. It's not just about sport infrastructure, it's a validation and recognition of equality. This investment is the meaningful action behind the ideals. This is the first arena in Canada to be filled with girls' hockey teams. Hockey began in Nova Scotia and it's fitting that our province is at the forefront of leading a diverse and equitable future for the sport."

– Christina Lamey, President, Cape Breton Blizzard Female Hockey Association

“The investment from the Government of Nova Scotia for the Canada Games Complex goes far beyond the bricks and mortar of a rink. This type of investment builds leaders, builds communities and builds lifelong memories. While academic excellence is at our core, a vibrant and supportive campus life – which provides opportunities for sport, recreation and healthy living for students’ physical and mental health – is key. Thanks to Premier Houston, Minister Dunn, and Minister Comer for this investment.”

– Sara Salter-Burke, Vice President of Development, Cape Breton University

“Today’s announcement is great news for the county arena and for those that use this facility. The upgrades will improve the accessibility and the overall functionality of the building, along with extending the lifespan of a facility that is important to the people of this area.”

– Paul MacDonald, Manager of Facilities, Cape Breton Regional Municipality

Quick facts:

  • the Canada Games Complex at Cape Breton University will be home to the Cape Breton Blizzards Female Hockey Association and help Mi’kmaw communities access hockey programs

Additional Resources:

Department of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage grants and programs: https://cch.novascotia.ca/investing-in-our-future

Funding Recipients:

  • Canada Games Complex, Sydney: $8.15 million for rehabilitation to increase access for girls and women in hockey
  • Cape Breton County Arena, Sydney: $4.3 million for critical infrastructure upgrades
  • Glooscap Rink, Canning: $2 million for structural rehabilitation
  • Colchester Legion Stadium, Truro: $1 million for repairs from hurricane Fiona damage
  • Sackville Arena, Lower Sackville: $630,000 for bleacher retrofitting
  • Chester Arena and Rink, Chester: $500,000 for repairs
  • Trenton Rink, Trenton: $300,000 for new seating and upgrades
  • St. Francis Xavier University Rink, Antigonish: $300,000 for ice plant
  • Shelburne County Arena, Shelburne: $260,000 for roof repairs
  • Queens Place Arena, Liverpool: $205,000 for a Zamboni
  • Pictou County Wellness Centre, Westville: $200,000 for ice surface and dressing room upgrades
  • Antigonish Arena, Antigonish: $160,000 for heating and accessibility upgrades
  • Eskasoni Arena, Eskasoni: $150,000 for accessibility improvements
  • Bluenose Curling, New Glasgow: $118,000 for upgrades and sprinkler system

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