Former premier gives $1M to multiplex project

New aquatic centre to be called McKenna Aquatic Centre for facility's entire life

Former premier Frank McKenna and his family have announced a $1-million contribution to the Arbec Wellness Centre’s aquatic centre. (FREE PRESS PHOTO)

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MIRAMICHI • The city’s multiplex fundraising campaign has received a boost from a former New Brunswick premier who has many long-standing ties to the Miramichi region.

Frank McKenna, who was premier from 1987 to 1997, announced a $1-million contribution from him and his wife, Julie, to the Arbec Wellness Centre’s aquatic facility on Tuesday at Miramichi City Hall.

In recognition of their gift, the aquatic centre will be perpetually named the McKenna Aquatic Centre. Mayor Adam Lordon also presented McKenna with a commemorative coin marking the city’s 30th anniversary and the 200th anniversary of the Great Miramichi Fire.

“I’m very delighted to support this project,” said McKenna. “The mayor has made a very impressive pitch to us about this project, which I think will be good for the health of the Miramichi and bring these people and communities together even more.”