News Release

SAINT JOHN (GNB) – The provincial and federal governments are providing a combined $125,000 to help Saint John host the 2018 Canada 55+ Games.

“Your government is committed to improving the quality of life for all New Brunswickers and supporting events such as the Canada 55+ Games is a great way that we can encourage our senior residents to remain active,” said Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Bill Fraser, who is also minister responsible for the Regional Development Corporation.

The provincial government is providing $100,000 through the corporation’s Community Events Program. The federal government is providing $25,000 through the Business Development Program under the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA).

“Helping Atlantic Canada’s communities develop their tourism potential is a priority for the Government of Canada and is key to raising incomes, generating growth and strengthening the middle class and those seeking to join it,” said Saint John-Rothesay MP Wayne Long. “That is why the Government of Canada and the four Atlantic Provinces are working together to bring in more visitors, create more jobs and new businesses, and ensure the long-term sustainability of Atlantic Canada’s tourism industry.”

Long attended for federal Innovation, Science and Economic Development Minister Navdeep Bains, who is also minister responsible for ACOA.

The Canada 55+ Games were established in 1996 and are held every four years. The games will be played at various locations throughout the Greater Saint John area on Aug. 21-24 and include events such as ice hockey, swimming, bowling, darts, golf, curling and tennis. New Brunswick last hosted the event in Dieppe in 2008.

More information about the games is available online.