“We continue to navigate through the RFP process with the groups who have submitted proposals on the future ownership or management of the provincial courses,” said Minister Henderson. “We want to get the best deal possible for Island taxpayers, so we are not going to rush into a deal that does not achieve our goal.”

The province issued a request for proposals on the management or ownership of Brudenell River, Mill River, the Links at Crowbush Cove and Dundarave in the summer of 2012. It is currently working with interested parties as they finalize proposals.

“By operating all four courses this year, we give ourselves more time to negotiate with the interested parties,” added Minister Henderson. “We also maintain the overall quality of the courses and maintain the marketing strategy to keep these courses as top-of-mind destinations for golfers.”

2012 saw an overall improvement in the performance of the four courses compared to the previous year. Total rounds played increased by close to 1,500 compared to 2011. Total losses were almost $100,000 less than budgeted and totaled just over $800,000.

The province expects the process to continue to move forward over the coming months. Minister Henderson would not speculate as to when an announcement on the future of the courses would be made.

The golf industry is extremely important to the Island’s economy. A recent report showed that 2,605 jobs on Prince Edward Island are either directly or indirectly related to golf. The industry generates upwards of $16 million per year in tax revenue for the province and local municipalities, and contributes about $61 million to the Island’s GDP. Prince Edward Island is home to 30 courses and is considered one of the top golf destinations in North America.