Statement by the Honourable Bal Gosal, Minister of State (Sport), on the Occasion of the First National Officials Day

OTTAWA, April 17, 2013 /CNW/ - Today marks the first National Officials Day in Canada. This is a special day that recognizes the contribution of the hundreds of thousands of officials, referees, umpires and judges in our sport system who play a vital role in making sport safe and fair for all participants.

Sports Officials Canada has designated April 17 as National Official Day in Canada, and this year the theme is "Respect the Official." I join Sports Officials Canada in inviting Canadians to take time to acknowledge their efforts and the tremendous impact these people have on the games we love.

I wish to personally thank the men and women who officiate our sports in Canada for their dedication and for their passion. On behalf of the Government of Canada, I commend the initiative of Sports Officials Canada for making this a special day for more than 900,000 Canadians who perform officiating duties each year.

SOURCE: Canadian Heritage