Cause of Tyne Valley arena fire still unknown, say investigators

Three days after fire destroyed Tyne Valley's communityarena, P.E.I.'s fire marshal's office says investigatorsstill haven't determined a cause.

A spokesperson said Tuesday the investigation is ongoing, and that a cause won't be made public until it's wrapped up.

Regardless, Tyne Valley's major Jeff Noyesays rink and community officials are moving ahead with plans to build a new rink.

They met with P.E.I. Communities Minister Jamie Fox and other government officials Tuesday, to talk about possible financial support.

Noye has said a new arena will cost anestimated $6 million. He said while insurance will likely cover about half of that, he's counting on community fundraising and government support to cover the rest.

After Tuesday's meeting, Fox said his government is keen to help out, but that it'stoo early to make any firm commitments.

"We don't know what insurance is going to be available, we don't know what programs will be available on a federal or provincial level," said Fox."But I think it's our goal to make sure we point them in the right direction. And if there are programs they can apply to, we're open to looking at those applications," he said.

"We're trying to get our ducks in a row here and get plans developed as soon as possible."

Neither the provincial or federal government has committed to providing any funding at this point.

In the meantime, an online fundraiser aimed at raising money for a new arena continues to gain steam.

'It's always been in my life'

19-year-old DarcieAugustine, who lives in Tyne Valley,started a GoFundMe page Sunday.

"I've seen GoFundMe pages take off before.So I thought it'd be a great way to start fundraising for the rink," said Augustine.

"I played hockey there, learned how to skate.For school trips, we'd always go there.We'd go to ice shows.It's always been in my life," said Augustine.

"The rink is like a big part of our community.it's like the heart and soul of Tyne Valley," she said.

Augustine said she hopes she can raise at least $10,000.

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