Friday, August 08, 2008

Statement

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


PM STATEMENT ON NATIONAL PEACEKEEPERS' DAY

August 8, 2008
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement today to mark Canada's first National Peacekeepers' Day:

"Today we honour those Canadians who have served as peacekeepers around the world.

It was Canadians who invented peacekeeping. For decades members of the Canadian Forces have been the most enthusiastic participants in, and experienced leaders of, peacekeeping operations around the world. Peacekeeping is part of Canada's strong military tradition. It is also a symbol of our country's commitment to building a more safe and secure world.

The word "peacekeeping" can be deceiving as it often involves service in some of the most dangerous regions of the world. Indeed, on this day 34 years ago, nine Canadians lost their lives while serving in a peacekeeping operation – the largest one-day loss of peacekeepers in Canadian history. Today we honor all who sacrificed so much in order to protect the lives of others.

Peacekeeping is one of the examples why the world needs a strong and vigorous Canada. Today, with our investments in a modern military, Canada is better able to contribute to international operations that bring security and stability to those who need it most.

On this day, I encourage all Canadians to say "thank you" to all of those who have served our country as peacekeepers. They, like everyone else who serves our country in uniform, continue to make their fellow Canadians proud."
The Prime Minister's Office - Communications
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posted by a Confidential Source @ 8/08/2008   0 comments

Statement

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


PM STATEMENT ON "THE LAST HUNDRED DAYS" OF THE FIRST WORLD WAR

August 8, 2008
Ottawa, Ontario

Today Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement regarding "The Last Hundred Days" of the First World War:

"This year, on November 11, Canada will mark the 90th anniversary of the end of the First World War.

More than 100,000 Canadians were at the forefront of many of the great battles in the final days of the war. This period, from August 8 to the signing of the armistice on November 11, is now known as "The Last Hundred Days."

Canadians are right to be proud at what those heroes in the Canadian Corps accomplished. Over "The Last Hundred Days", Canadian soldiers advanced 130 km and 30 Canadians and Newfoundlanders earned the Victorian Cross.

The "Last Hundred Days" did more than just mark the end of the brutality of the First World War it also marked the origins of the modern, cohesive Canadian Military we see today. In addition, the end of the Great War marked the dawn of a new confident and independent Canadian voice on the world stage.

Our honoured veterans helped to build the peaceful and prosperous Canada we know today. They gave everything they had for everything we have. With each passing year, we witness more Canadians taking part in Remembrance Day Ceremonies that honour their courage and sacrifice. They are the heroes responsible for the strong, optimistic Canada we know today.

Those who served, and continue to serve, represent the very best of what it means to be Canadian. We are eternally grateful.

Lest we forget."
The Prime Minister's Office - Communications
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posted by a Confidential Source @ 8/08/2008   0 comments

Statement

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


PM STATEMENT ON THE OCCASION OF THE XXIX OLYMPIC GAMES TAKING PLACE IN BEIJING

August 8, 2008
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement on the occasion of the XXIX Olympic Games taking place from August 8 to 24 in Beijing:

"I am joined by all Canadians in wishing our athletes and their coaches the very best during their upcoming competitions. You are an enormous source of pride and inspiration for all Canadians and we salute your perseverance and dedication in your quest for excellence.

Canadians recognize and admire the years of effort involved in preparing for Olympic Games. From the playground to the podium, the values we learn from sport – teamwork, discipline, achievement and confidence – are values that make a society and a country stronger.

The Government of Canada is a proud partner in supporting excellence in sport. As the world comes together in Beijing to reach for one dream, we want you to know that we are following with great pride and excitement your performances at these Games.

From September 6 to 17, Canada's paralympians will also inspire Canadians as they compete in the XIII Summer Paralympic Games. We look forward to conveying our support to these exceptional athletes."
The Prime Minister's Office - Communications
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posted by a Confidential Source @ 8/08/2008   0 comments

News Release

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


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.

    The Prime Minister's Office - Communications
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    • posted by a Confidential Source @ 8/08/2008   0 comments