Government of Canada Celebrates Olympic Triumph
VANCOUVER, July 2, 2003 -- Minister of Canadian Heritage Sheila Copps and Secretary of State (Physical Activity and Sport) Paul DeVillers today encouraged all Canadians to join together in celebrating the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) decision to award the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games to Canada."What an incredible win for Canada," stated Minister Copps from Vancouver's GM Place, where an estimated 18 000 people erupted in celebration after hearing the IOC vote results. "This is truly a gold medal performance and a fantastic team effort.
"Already, we're seeing tangible benefits," she added. "New bridges have been built with First Nations, inner-city neighbourhoods, people with a disability, women, and youth. And with a four-year arts and culture festival planned for launch in 2006, the impact on Canada's cultural community will be incredible."
Secretary of State DeVillers served as the honorary flag bearer for the Athletes' Parade at GM Place. "Today's decision by the IOC will strengthen Canada's goal of becoming a leading sport nation by the year 2010," he noted. "Hosting the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games is a major boost for athlete and coach development in this country."
Planning for the 2010 Winter Games can begin immediately because of the Multi-Party Agreement signed last November by the three levels of government, and the national Olympic and Paralympic Committees. It was the first time in Olympic Bid history that such a document had been signed before the Games were awarded.
"We'll now reap the benefits of all the hard work that went into that agreement," added Minister Copps. "The agreement spells out the roles and responsibilities for all the key players. Ultimately, it means we're ready to hit the ground running."
Minister Copps reaffirmed the Government of Canada's strong support for Vancouver 2010. "We look forward to delivering on our commitments, in close partnership with the eventual organizing committee, the Province of British Columbia, and the other Member Partners."
The 2010 Olympic Winter Games will be staged in Vancouver and Whistler from February 12 to 28, 2010. Whistler will host the Winter Paralympic Games from March 12 to 21, 2010.
Information:
Sonya-Kim St-Julien
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
(819) 997-7788
Mario Tremblay
Press Secretary
Office of the Secretary of State
(Physical Activity and Sport)
(819) 953-7329
[ Media Room ]
