Paradise MHA looking for help from neighbours

The Paradise Minor Hockey Association (PMHA), facing the biggest hurdle in its twoyear existence, will be relying on neighbouring minor hockey associations to help secure ice time as a result of a labour dispute between the Town of Paradise and its unionized workers.

The association averages 65-70 hours per week to run house and all-star programs at the Paradise Double Ice Complex, which is closed because the Town has locked out its unionized staff.

A notice on the minor hockey association’s website Tuesday indicated it has secured enough ice time, “to meet our hosting obligations within the Interlocking Hockey League, Don Johnson Hockey League, and the Female League for the reminder of this week.”

The association had its teams selected and jerseys handed out, and had begun play when the lockout occurred, leading to the closure of the complex late Sunday.

The PMHA is looking into the possibility of buying ice time at other arenas in the region, but given the scarcity of available time, it will be looking to other associations to purchase or donate some of their ice time.

That could mean travel to arenas as far away as the Southern Shore or even Conception Bay North.

“We have to take what’s available,” said the Paradise minor hockey official, who preferred not to be identified. “We’d be very grateful.

“Yes, it’s a pain, but it’s a pain for everyone.”