OTTAWA, May 12, 2004 -- Claude Duplain, Member of Parliament (Portneuf), on behalf of the Honourable Stan Keyes, Minister of State (Sport), the Honourable David Pratt, Minister of National Defence and Sarah Perreault, Member of the National Assembly (Chauveau), on behalf of Jean-Marc Fournier, Quebec Minister of Municipal Affairs, Sports and Recreation (MMASR), today announced funding for the Centre Biathlon Myriam Bédard for next year. "The Government of Canada is serious about providing all our athletes with the tools they need to achieve excellence. The Centre de Biathlon Myriam Bédard has been an important presence in our community and in our country. Many biathletes who trained at the Centre have become inspirations for our communities, thanks to their national and international achievements. With federal and provincial support, this tradition of excellence will continue," said Mr. Duplain."This investment is vital to ensure Quebec athletes have access to high-quality equipment that, in all of eastern Canada, is only available in Chauveau county," said Ms. Perreault. "As a result, our athletes will be able to train here in Quebec, without having to move in order to continue practising their sport and to become the best they can be."The Governments of Canada and Quebec will each provide $48,300 to maintain the operation of the Centre de Biathlon Myriam Bédard. The funds will help support part of the operational costs and technical staff to manage the Centre. Previously, the Centre was funded by the Canadian Forces. The Centre de Biathlon Myriam Bédard, located at the Canadian Forces Base Valcartier, is one of two designated Biathlon National Training Centres in the country, the other being in Canmore, Alberta.Information:Stéphane Gosselin Press Secretary Office of the Minister MMASR (418) 691-2050 Anne-Sophie LawlessChief of Media RelationsCanadian Heritage(819) 997-9314
