Today, Terry Sheehan, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Labour and Member of Parliament for Sault. Ste. Marie, and Dean Sayers, Chief of Batchewana First Nation, announced a federal investment of $2,994,244 to modernize the Rankin Arena in Batchewana First Nation.
The Rankin Arena is the largest community building in Batchewana First Nation, used for gatherings, sport and recreation, and programming. Through this investment, the community will be able to renovate the arena's envelope, roof, and doors. These upgrades will make it more energy efficient, accessible, and functional, and safer for users and staff. The arena will have lower operating costs, which will enable it to extend its operating hours to the benefit of all residents.
These enhancements are expected to reduce the arena's energy consumption by an estimated 14.5% and greenhouse gas emissions by 39.9 tonnes annually.
By investing in infrastructure, the Government of Canada is growing our country's economy, building resilient communities, and improving the lives of Canadians.