May 15, 2004 (Toronto, ON) – The Canadian Olympic Committee (COC) congratulates the Martin government on its announcement earlier today that it will invest an additional $20 million to support high performance athletes and sport in Canada. Minister of Canadian Heritage Helene Chalifour Scherrer and Minister of State (Sport) Stan Keyes announced the funding in separate press conferences in Toronto and Quebec City.

“We commend Minister of State (Sport) Stan Keyes for his efforts to support high performance athletes and sport in Canada, and thank the government for their action in recognizing that support for our athletes is crucial for success,” said Chris Rudge, Chief Executive Officer of the COC. “We believe this additional funding should be directed towards Canadian senior and development carded athletes to enhance opportunities for success in international competitions, including the upcoming Olympic Games in Athens.”

The COC and members of Canada’s sport community have been advocating for increased investment in high performance sport from all levels of government in an effort to move Canada closer to the spending levels of our major international competitors. In addition, advocacy efforts have also highlighted the direct relationship between broad base sport programs and those designed for high performance athletes.

“Today’s announcement coupled with the $10 million allocated as part of the 2004 federal budget will help establish a stable funding base for sport in Canada, one that provides Canadian athletes the resources necessary to achieve podium success,” said Rudge. “We look forward to an ongoing dialogue with Minister Keyes, his staff, Minister of Canadian Heritage Helene Chalifour Scherrer, and the all-party sport caucus on increasing the investment in sport and support for Canada’s athletes.”