OTTAWA, December 3, 2008 - The Honourable Gary Lunn, Minister of State (Sport), today congratulated the Government of Saskatchewan on reaching an agreement with the Vancouver Organizing Committee (VANOC) to ensure that the province will participate in the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.
This agreement will allow the province to highlight its culture, businesses, and artistic community and encourage Aboriginal involvement in the Games. For example, Saskatchewan will be able to host a provincial day during the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Games, which will help promote the province as a tourist destination.
With Monday's announcement, Saskatchewan joins five other provinces and territories that have signed agreements to provide support to the Games under VANOC's Contributing Province/Territory Program (CPTP). Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Yukon announced their contributions earlier this year.
"The Government of Canada applauds the Government of Saskatchewan for signing this agreement with VANOC," said Minister of State Lunn. "By joining other Canadian provinces and territories in this program, Saskatchewan will be able to share its innovative, dynamic, and diverse culture with audiences from across the country and around the world."
Under the CPTP, participating provinces and territories make a financial contribution toward the success of Canadian athletes, the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and the Vancouver 2010 Cultural Olympiad. Signatory provinces and territories receive a package of benefits similar to those of corporate sponsors, creating a close association with the Games.
"This agreement will enable the people of Saskatchewan to contribute to a once-in-a-generation event, while allowing them to showcase their customs and traditions to their fellow Canadians and to a global audience," added Minister Lunn. "This is another example of how these Games are made by Canadians, for Canadians. These are truly Canada's Games."
The Government of Canada is a major and committed partner to Canada's 2010 Winter Games. This includes contributions to cultural programming initiatives such as the Torch Relay, Opening Ceremonies and Live Sites.
Information:
Sean O'Leary
Office of the Honourable Gary Lunn, P.C., M.P.
Minister of State (Sport)
819-934-1122
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
