OTTAWA, February 9, 2006 -- Minister of International Trade and Minister for the Pacific Gateway and the Vancouver-Whistler Olympics David Emerson today announced $33.88 million in funding for the Vancouver Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games Organizing Committee (VANOC). This announcement fulfills the Government of Canada’s commitment to support Vancouver 2010 capital requirements for the current fiscal year.

"The Government of Canada has made a major funding commitment to the Games. Hosting the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games is a unique opportunity for Canada to showcase its accomplishments and innovations to the world," said Minister Emerson. "It will also provide sustainable benefits for sport, culture, the environment, and the economy across the country and for all Canadians."

"We are proud to help make the 2010 Winter Games truly Canada’s Games," the Minister added. "We are pleased to be part of a solid 2010 team, which includes VANOC, the Province of British Columbia, the City of Vancouver, the City of Richmond, the Resort Municipality of Whistler, the Canadian Olympic Committee, the Canadian Paralympic Committee, and the Four Host First Nations Society."

"The Government of Canada is an essential partner in Vancouver 2010’s capital construction program," said Vancouver 2010 Chief Executive Officer John Furlong. "As we approach our busiest period of venue construction, we applaud Minister Emerson’s swift action to transfer funds that were part of the government’s original capital commitment."

The Government of Canada has made a commitment of $235 million to meet VANOC’s capital requirements. Today’s announcement of $33.88 million is part of this commitment and is in addition to the $8.1 million already received by VANOC. The Government of Canada will continue to work closely with the committee to develop a disbursement schedule for the rest of the funds.

Information:

Jean-Guy Beaupré
Chief, Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819 997-9314