Statement by the Honourable Bal Gosal, Minister of State (Sport), on the Announcement of the Canadian Olympic Committee's Investment in High-Performance Sport

OTTAWA, Nov. 14, 2012 /CNW/ - Today I was pleased to learn that the Canadian Olympic Committee is investing $100 million in Canadian high-performance sport.

This funding, which comes largely from the private sector, is a testament to the value we place on sport in this country. It will make an important difference in shaping the future of sport in Canada.

In particular, I was pleased to see a specific envelope dedicated to the development of Canada's team for the Toronto 2015 Pan American Games team. In less than three years, Canada will welcome athletes from across the Americas, and our Canadian athletes will have the opportunity to demonstrate their sport excellence to the world.

The Government of Canada is the largest single investor in sport in Canada and is pleased to provide continued support to our high-performance athletes. They are an enormous source of pride for all Canadians, and they serve as inspiring role models of sportsmanship, determination and motivation for our children.

As Minister of State (Sport), I want to take this opportunity to commend the Canadian Olympic Committee and its corporate sponsors on providing support that will directly assist our athletes, coaches, and the entire high-performance sport system in Canada.

SOURCE: Canadian Heritage