The new Credit Union Arena was made possible thanks to a $3.2 million contribution from the Canada-Prince Edward Island Municipal Rural Infrastructure Fund (MRIF). Through MRIF, each of the three contributing partners, the Governments of Canada and Prince Edward Island and the Sports Recreation Association of Tignish, contributed approximately $1.07 million.

“Canada’s New Government is getting things done for the people of Tignish,” said the Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA). “Through our investment and working with provincial government and local groups, ACOA is helping keep communities vibrant.”

“The Credit Union Arena will provide safe space for recreational opportunities and constructive programming for the community,” said the Honourable Pat Binns, Premier of Prince Edward Island. “The arena is designed as a true multi-use community resource, with hospitality areas, community rooms, and an NHL-size ice surface, complete with modern equipment.”

The Credit Union Arena caters to a population of 5,000 and serves as the new home ice for the Tignish Minor Hockey Association, Recreational Hockey Association, figure skating club and recreational skating groups.

The former Centennial Arena was always one of the focal points of the community and surrounding rural area. Parts of the previous rink were more than 40 years old and required major renovations.

“We’ve been waiting patiently for this for a long time. It is exciting, not just for our hockey association, but for the entire community,” says Lambert Gallant, President of the Sport Recreation Association of Tignish.

The Credit Union Arena has an 85 x 200 NHL-size ice surface complete with modern lighting and ice-making equipment. There is seating for 600 people, six new dressing rooms, as well as new zamboni and refrigeration rooms and a new ice making plant.

In addition, the front of the building has been rebuilt to include a new foyer, canteen, hospitality room, public washrooms, offices and storage area. The second floor includes a new entry stairway and room for a future elevator, a viewing balcony as well as mechanical and electrical upgrades. The construction design allows for maximum use of the facility, with wheelchair accessibility and all necessities on one level.

For more information about federal and provincial infrastructure initiatives that benefit the communities of Prince Edward Island, visit www.infrastructure.gc.ca or www.gov.pe.ca/go/infrastructure.

BACKGROUND:

The former Centennial Arena was built in 1964. The new Credit Union Arena remains owned and operated by the Sports and Recreation Association of Tignish. The rink offers many year-round activities for the area. During the winter, the minor hockey program and Silver Wings figure skating club use the rink for their ice time. In the summer, activities include the Irish Moss Festival, bingos and dances. This new facility allows for maximum use, is wheelchair accessible, and will be available for community events and a greater range of recreational sports.