The Government of Canada Announces Funding for the 8th World Championships in Athletics
EDMONTON, April 25, 2000 -- The Honourable Sheila Copps, Minister of Canadian Heritage, and the Honourable Anne McLellan, Attorney General and Minister of Justice and Member of Parliament for Edmonton West, today announced that the Government of Canada will provide $40 million for the 8th World Championships in Athletics which will take place in Edmonton, Alberta, in August 2001."I am pleased to announce this funding for Edmonton 2001," said Minister Copps. "These Championships will not only increase the profile of Canada and Canadian athletes on the international scene but will also be a great source of inspiration for our future athletes."
"The Federal Government has supported Edmonton's efforts to bring this major event to Canada from the outset," said Minister McLellan. "I was pleased to play a role in representing the Federal Government in the bid presentation and it gives me a great deal of satisfaction to be part of today's announcement."
"The people of Edmonton have made sport part of their lives," said Secretary of State (Amateur Sport) Denis Coderre. "The proof is the fantastic energy and enthusiasm that fueled Edmonton's winning bid for the 2001 World Championships in Athletics, the third largest sport event in the world."
The World Championships in Athletics organized by the International Amateur Athletic Federation are held every two years. They attract an average of 4,000 athletes and coaches, 1,500 officials and more than 2,500 media representatives from more than 200 countries. Edmonton will be the first city in North America to host the Championships.
Funding in support of this event is consistent with the Federal Policy for Hosting International Sport Events.
Information:
Catherine Gagnaire
Communications Assistant
Office of the Minister
of Canadian Heritage
(819) 997-7788
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