BEN EOIN (NS) – December 29, 2008 – Ski Ben Eoin, a not-for-profit recreational facility, is upgrading its snow-making equipment thanks to an investment by the Government of Canada.
The Honourable Keith Ashfield, Minister of State (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency), today announced $200,000 in funding, through Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation (ECBC), for the Cape Breton Ski Club, owners and operators of Ski Ben Eoin.
“The Government of Canada is pleased to invest in this community-based operation that serves local residents and attracts many visitors,” said Minister Ashfield. “This project demonstrates our efforts to strengthen economic development in rural communities.”
Ski Ben Eoin is a recreational focal point on Cape Breton Island featuring downhill skiing, a ski/snowboard park, a half pipe and several cross-country ski trails. A new world class golf course is under construction nearby. By upgrading its snow making system, Ski Ben Eoin will improve the efficiency of its operations, allowing it to open earlier in the season and operate longer. It will also better position the facility to attract major events, resulting in significant benefits to the Cape Breton economy.
“The improvements that we have been able to make as a result of this investment from the Government of Canada will enable Ski Ben Eoin to continue to offer a first-class winter recreational experience,” said Ski Ben Eoin General Manager, Kevin MacInnis. “The new equipment enables Ski Ben Eoin to make more snow in less time, thus improving the efficiency of our operations.”
The total cost of the new equipment is over $560,000 with ECBC providing funding of $200,000.
Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation offers programs in support of economic development initiatives and is responsible for delivering ACOA’s programs on Cape Breton Island and in the Mulgrave area.
INFORMATION:
Kevin MacInnis
General Manager, Ski Ben Eoin
Tel: 902-828-2804
D.A. Landry
ECBC Communications
Tel: 902-564-3617