A recent article in the Prince Albert Daily Herald by the Canada Safety Council outlined in detail the importance of swimming lessons to the well-being and safety of children. I am sure the many hundreds of children who learned to swim at Marion Aquatics over he past 40 years would agree. We owe a debt of gratitude to the Sisters of the Presentation of Mary for this important contribution to our community.
The proposed closing of the pool, which is impeccably maintained, well-used and deeply-appreciated, seems a poorly thought out decision, and one without community consultation. The proposed new recreation facility is a long way off. The closure of the pool strands the many people, mostly seniors who benefit from the fitness and well being of aquacize.
The pool has also been home to the Pikes swimming program and the synchronized swimming club.
The long history of Red Cross swimming lessons at the pool is sacrificed, as are many other services the pool provides.
Many members of the community would like the mayor to step back, reconsider the decision, consult the appropriate stakeholders and examine ways the city could keep Marion Aquatics open.
The hundreds of citizens who use the pool for fitness, recreation, swimming lessons and aquatic programs would be grateful.
Murdine McCreath
Prince Albert
