Inauguration of Pat Burns Arena in Stanstead

STANSTEAD, QUEBEC--(Marketwire - Sept. 25, 2011) - The Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities and Minister of the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec, took the opportunity of today's inauguration of the Pat Burns Arena to reiterate the importance of this new infrastructure for the local population.

"Construction of the arena being inaugurated today helped to create jobs. Its opening will now encourage young people to adopt a healthy lifestyle," said Minister Lebel. "It's very exciting for a sports fan like myself to be here as we pay tribute to Pat Burns, a great coach and a great Canadian," he added.

Completion of this project necessitated a total investment of $8,340,127. Government funding amounts to $5,361,636, including $2,680,818 awarded by the Government of Canada under the Communities Component of the Building Canada Fund – Quebec. The Government of Quebec also contributed $2,680,818 toward the project, while the Town of Stanstead's investment stands at $2,978,491.

The Pat Burns Arena will not only help maintain and develop the activities of the College, but also meet a recurrent need for more ice time for Magog and Coaticook and serve as an important community gathering place. The new 3,750 m² arena seats more than 350 people. The former arena, built in 1954, was in an advanced state of disrepair and no longer met current standards and codes.

The contribution from the Government of Canada was awarded through Canada's Economic Action Plan. To learn more about this plan, visit www.actionplan.gc.ca.

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