Government of Canada Supports Sport Development in Manitoba

WINNIPEG, Aug. 20, 2013 /CNW/ - The Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, the Honourable Bal Gosal, Minister of State (Sport), and the Honourable Eric Robinson, Manitoba Minister of Aboriginal and Northern Affairs and Minister responsible for Sport, today announced the signing of a bilateral agreement between the Government of Canada and Government of Manitoba for sport development in the province.

"This agreement will have social, economic, and cultural impacts on the communities of Manitoba for years to come," said Minister Glover. "It will support initiatives encouraging children, young people, persons with disabilities, and Aboriginal people to take part in sport. We are pleased to continue our cooperation with Manitoba in the area of sport, and we look forward to continued success with more initiatives in the province in the future."

"Working with provincial and territorial governments to advance important priorities for sport and physical activity in Canada is something our Government is proud to do. We want to make sport participation a part of Canadians' everyday lives," said Minister of State Gosal. "Today's funding announcement clearly demonstrates that we are committed to working together with all levels of government to achieve this common goal. Active living and participation in sport are important elements in keeping our communities and children healthy and active."

"Every kid in Manitoba deserves a chance to be active and learn more about the sports they love," said Minister Robinson. "This funding will go a long way toward providing opportunities to young Manitobans and families who would not otherwise have those opportunities."

"This agreement allows us to continue providing new opportunities for under-serviced populations throughout Manitoba and Winnipeg's downtown core," said Jeff Hnatiuk, President and CEO of Sport Manitoba. "We are excited to complete the Sport for Life Centre and significantly expand quality sport and leadership programming for the inner city and the bilateral program."

The three-year renewed bilateral agreement with the Government of Manitoba was signed today with a federal investment of $936,819. Canada's contribution is conditional on a matching contribution from the Province. Manitoba plans to contribute up to $1,158,675 during the three-year agreement, for a total of $2,095,494.

SOURCE: Canadian Heritage