News Release

From the Prime Minister's Web Site (http://www.pm.gc.ca/)

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GOVERNMENT OF CANADA AND GOVERNMENT OF ONTARIO TO PARTNER ON PAN AMERICAN GAMES BID

Joint funding commitment ensures Greater Golden Horseshoe Area will have competitive bid for prestigious international sporting event

August 8, 2008
Ottawa, Ontario

The Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario have agreed to partner in supporting the Greater Golden Horseshoe Area's bid for the 2015 Pan/Parapan American Games.

"The Greater Golden Horseshoe has a well-deserved reputation for being able to host major international events," said Prime Minister Stephen Harper. "By working together to bring the Pan/Parapan American Games to Southern Ontario, we are also bringing an economic boost to the province and shining a spotlight on Canada's outstanding athletes and fans."

"I'm very proud to make the case for hosting the Pan/Parapan American Games and we're pleased to have the support of the federal government. We're committed to working closely with local communities to put forward a strong proposal that highlights our diversity, enthusiastic sports fans and friendly people," said Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty.

Investing in the Pan/Parapan American Games will provide the Greater Golden Horseshoe with a lasting legacy of new and improved athletic facilities that will help people engage in healthier, active living.

Premier McGuinty will travel to the Beijing Olympics from August 13 to 15 to launch the Greater Golden Horseshoe Area's bid to host the 2015 Pan/Parapan American Games.

QUICK FACTS

The Pan/Parapan American Games are held every four years for competitors from all nations of the 42 countries of the Americas

The Pan American Games could generate close to $2 billion in economic activity, create 17,000 jobs and bring an estimated 250,000 tourists to the Greater Golden Horseshoe.

In 2007, the Pan/Parapan American Games were held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Over 5,000 athletes took part.

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The Prime Minister's Office - Communications
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