OTTAWA, May 12, 2006 - On behalf of the Government of Canada, Minister for Sport Michael Chong will welcome Olympic and Paralympic medalists and head coaches of the 2006 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games to recognize their outstanding performances in Torino. The Government of Canada, in partnership with the Canadian Olympic Committee and the Canadian Paralympic Committee, will celebrate their success through various activities on May 14 and 15.
"Canadians are proud of the success of all our athletes in Torino. They competed and won against the best in the world. They are role models for all of us," said Minister for Sport Michael Chong. "Our athletes' success bodes well for the future, when Canada hosts the world in 2010."
During their stay in Ottawa, the medalists and coaches will be introduced in the House of Commons and attend other formal activities. They will also participate in a public autograph session and charity breakfast. For details on these activities and media contact information, please refer to the attached itinerary.
"Canada's new government is committed to creating a sport environment conducive to athlete development and success," added Minister Chong. "We are working in partnership with the sport community and the provinces and territories, as well as other stakeholders, to ensure that the sport system continues to improve and better support athletes in their quest for sport excellence."
The Government of Canada is committed to the sport system, to maintaining Canadians' health, and to strengthening our communities. It is the single largest investor in Canada's sport system, with a total of $140 million provided to support initiatives to increase Canadians' participation in sport and for high-performance athletes. The federal government also funds half of the budget of the Own the Podium initiative, which represents $110 million over five years.
Information:
Gary Toft
Director of Communications
Office of the Honourable Michael Chong
613-943-1833
Donald Boulanger
A/Chief, Media RelationsCanadian Heritage
819 997-9314
Itinerary for Canadian Athletes and Coaches
Ottawa, May 14-15, 2006
May 14 - Autograph Signing Session (3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.)
Where:
Canadian Tulip Festival, Majors Hill Park, VIP tent
Details:
Autograph signing session after introduction of athletes on main stage.
Media information:
Doug Little
Director of Communications and Marketing
Canadian Tulip Festival
Tel.: 613 567-5757 ext. 245
Cel.: 613 203-2246
May 15 - Fundraising Breakfast (7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.)
Where:
Métropolitain Brasserie
700 Sussex Drive, Ottawa
Details:
The proceeds of this fundraising activity will benefit the Snowsuit Fund. Athletes will be available for interviews in the courtyard after the breakfast.
Media information:
Trish Ault
Vice-Chair
The Snowsuit Fund
Tel.: 613 230-2220
Cel.: 613 791-9947
Luncheon (11:30 a.m. to 1:20 p.m.)
Where:
Drawing Room
Château Laurier
1 Rideau Street, Ottawa
Details:
The lunch will begin with speeches by Minister for Sport Michael Chong and Minister of International Trade and Minister for the Pacific Gateway and the Vancouver-Whistler Olympics David Emerson.
Media information:
Gary Toft
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister for Sport
Tel.: 613 943-1833
Jennifer Chiu
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of International Trade and Minister for the Pacific Gateway and the Vancouver-Whistler Olympics
Tel.: 613 371-1557
Introduction of Athletes - House of Commons (3:00 p.m. to 3:15 p.m.)
Details:
Athletes will be seated in the House of Commons Gallery (North side) and will be introduced alphabetically by the Speaker.
Media information:
Heather Bradley
Director of Communications
Office of the Speaker
Tel.: 613 995-7882
Reception (3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.)
Where:
Reading Room 237-C
Centre Block
House of Commons
Details:
Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Minister Michael Chong will deliver remarks.
Media information:
Communications
Office of the Prime Minister
Tel.: 613 957-5555
Gary Toft
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister for Sport
Tel.: 613 943-1833
