NR–07.040 - May 26, 2007
OTTAWA - The Honourable Gordon O'Connor, Minister of National Defence, and Carla Qualtrough, President of the Canadian Paralympic Committee, today announced the launch of the Soldier On program.
The Soldier On program is a joint initiative between the Canadian Paralympic Committee and the Department of National Defence (DND) to develop together a program that will enhance, through sport, the quality of life of current and former Canadian Forces (CF) members who became disabled while serving in the CF. The needs of the CF members will be determined using a consultative approach during the Summit and afterwards.
"This is a fantastic opportunity for these individuals to continue active and healthy lifestyles," said Minister O'Connor. "We feel that Soldier On will make an important difference in their lives and those of their families."
The announcement was made during the Paralympic Sport Summit at Carleton University. The Summit brings together CF members with a physical disability and Paralympic athletes to share their experiences. CF personnel will meet national Paralympic team coaches and rehabilitation experts and be introduced to seven Paralympic sports during hands-on sessions.
“The dedication of our Paralympians, equaled by the dedication of our wounded soldiers, is a wonderful thing to behold - working together, to help those in uniform, is simply overwhelming in its inspiration for all of us," said General Rick Hillier, Chief of the Defence Staff.
The program will be integrated into the larger morale and welfare programs within the Personnel Support Programs Division of the Canadian Forces Personnel Support Agency.
"This will be an exciting chance for the soldiers to not only gain exposure to these sports, but also to experience first hand the benefits and possibilities of sport for persons with a disability," said Mrs. Qualtrough. "Sport at all levels, from recreational to high performance, can help people with a physical disability on many levels - from enhancing rehabilitation to increasing their quality of life."
- 30 -
