July 14, 2008
No. 161
The Honourable David Emerson, Minister of Foreign Affairs, will be in Beijing from August 7 to 11 to lead the Canadian government delegation attending the 2008 Olympic Games and opening ceremonies. Minister Emerson will be accompanied by the Honourable Helena Guergis, Secretary of State (Foreign Affairs and International Trade) (Sport).
"I am very much looking forward to attending the Games and supporting our Canadian athletes," said Minister Emerson. "It will be a tremendous experience to see them compete with the best in the world."
While in Beijing, Minister Emerson will tour the Olympic Village and the Canada Olympic House and meet with Canadian athletes and their families.
The Government of Canada is the single largest contributor to sport in Canada, and supports participation and excellence from the playground to the podium. In 2008-09, the federal investment in the Canadian sport system will reach an all-time high of $166 million annually. This includes the announcement in Budget 2008 of $24 million over the next two years and $24 million per year ongoing to support the Road to Excellence program. This funding will enhance the government's excellence programming for summer athletes, increasing the number of coaches, training camps and opportunities for our athletes to compete internationally.
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For further information, media representatives may contact:
Lynn Meahan
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs
613-995-1851
Foreign Affairs Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
613-995-1874
www.international.gc.ca/index.aspx
