More than $12Million for the Games of La Francophonie
OTTAWA, March 16, 2000 -- In the presence of the Prime Minister of Canada, the Right Honourable Jean Chrétien, the Honourable Sheila Copps, Minister of Canadian Heritage, and the Honourable Don Boudria, Minister of State, Leader of the Government in the House of Commons and President of the Steering Committee for the IV Games of La Francophonie, today signed a contribution agreement with the Games of La Francophonie Organizing Committee (GFOC). This agreement confirms the $12,125,000 financial contribution from the Government of Canada to the 2001 Games."Canada is proud of its role as host in 2001 of Francophone athletes and artists from around the globe," said Minister Copps. "This large-scale celebration of La Francophonie, which will showcase originality and diversity of Francophone culture, will put the spotlight on our dynamic Francophone youth, as well as create bonds of solidarity and cooperation amongst countries which share the French language. I believe these games will help contribute to the vitality of the millions of Francophones throughout Canada. This support is another example of the Government of Canada's commitment to youth, culture and sport."
"From July 14 to 24, 2001, all eyes will focus on the Ottawa-Hull region where youth from around the world will come together in friendly competition," said Minister Boudria. "I am proud of the partnership that has been established between the Government of Canada and the Games of La Francophonie Organizing Committee. Under the terms of the contribution agreement signed today, the Government of Canada reiterates its support to the organization of the IV Games of La Francophonie. We want the region and Canada to benefit fully from the economic, social and cultural spinoffs that this major event will produce," added the Minister.
The Games of La Francophonie date back to the Francophone Summit held in Québec City in 1987. The IV Games of La Francophonie in Ottawa-Hull will welcome more than 2,600 participants, from more than 40 countries and governments who share the French language, and who will be competing against each other in athletic and cultural competitions. The total budget for the Games is $32.7 million.
The Government of Canada's contribution was provided for in the February 1999 federal budget and is therefore built into the existing fiscal framework
Information:
Catherine Gagnaire
Communications Assistant
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
(819) 997-7788
Dominique Lemieux
Press Attache
Office of the Honourable Don Boudria
(613) 996-9429
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