Resolutions

Whereas provincial and federal grant funding affecting recreational infrastructure that includes ice surfaces tends to target indoor arenas; and

Whereas ice rentals in small to medium municipalities appear to be at a premium and focused mainly on structured hockey and skating programs; and

Whereas physical activity during the winter is often focused around ice rinks, particularly in smaller centres; and

Whereas there is a need to ensure that there are adequate opportunities for recreational skating, unstructured hocky practice and “shinny” in communities that do not have access to arenas; and

Whereas there is limited access to recreational grant funding for the construction of outdoor rinks and improvements to existing ice rinks.

Therefore be it resolved that SUMA advocate the Government of Saskatchewan to provide additional grant funding to, and partner with, Saskatchewan municipalities to sustain and grow our community open-air skating rinks.

Acts affected: None

Dear Randy Goulden:

Thank you for sharing the SUMA resolution to seek funding for Saskatchewan open­ air skating rinks and highlighting their importance in our communities. The Government of Saskatchewan recognizes that skating and curling rinks contribute to our high quality of life and ensures our communities remain vibrant and growing.

While expanding the program to include outdoor rinks is not currently part of the program criteria, we will keep your suggestion in mind as part of future discussions.

Sincerely,

Alana Ross

Minister of Parks, Culture and Sport