Canada Furthers International Development Through Sport
OTTAWA, May 25, 2005 -- The Honourable Stephen Owen, Minister of Western Economic Diversification and Sport, was in New York yesterday to take part in the launch of the International Working Group on Sport for Development and Peace."Canada has participated for more than a decade in programs that promote sport as a tool for peace and development," said Minister Owen. "Partnerships between Sport Canada and the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) have brought together expertise in both sport and development to implement programs that have changed the lives of individuals in sub-Saharan Africa and the Caribbean. I am proud to take part in this International Working Group along with my colleagues from Switzerland and Norway and ministers from numerous developing countries."
Spearheaded by the international organization Right to Play, the International Working Group on Sport for Development and Peace met for the first time in New York yesterday. Athletes, ministers from various countries, and sports federation representatives endorsed this initiative that aims to establish and promote Sport for Development sample policy guidelines and best practices. These can be used by countries wishing to expand their activities in this important area.
As one of the three initial funding governments, Canada committed $120,000 in 2004--2005 to help establish the Working Group. Overall, Canada invested more than $3.6 million in the same year towards special projects and organizations dedicated to peace and development through sport.
The International Working Group on Sport for Development and Peace was created under the auspices of the United Nations' International Year for Sport and Physical Education.
Information:
Renée Gillen
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Western Economic Diversification and Minister of State (Sport)
(613) 954-1110
Myriam Brochu
Chief, Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
(819) 997-9314
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