Statement

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

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STATEMENT BY THE PRIME MINISTER OF CANADA

September 9, 2008
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement today:

"On behalf of the Government of Canada and all Canadians, I would like to congratulate cyclist Jean Quévillon and swimmers Valérie Grand'Maison, Kirby Côté, and Chelsey Gotell and for their exceptional accomplishments on becoming Canada's first medalists at the Beijing Paralympic Games. Canada is delighted to see them representing our country on the podium with the world's best Paralympic athletes."

"We are extremely proud of Canada's Paralympic team competing in Beijing. Our athletes compete with dignity and respect. They exhibit dedication to their sport and to their country. Their commitment to excellence and to achieving their Paralympic dream truly makes them great sport ambassadors for Canada."

Jean Quévillon from Ste-Adèle, Québec won the bronze medal in men's cycling individual pursuit (CP-3 classification). Valérie Grand'Maison from Fleurimont, Québec led a Canadian sweep in the women's 100 metre butterfly (S-13 classification), with Kirby Côté from Winnipeg, Manitoba winning the silver and Chelsey Gotell of Antigonish, Nova Scotia capturing the bronze.

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The Prime Minister's Office - Communications
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