Minister Hehr announces a significant funding partnership.
TORONTO, June 15, 2017 /CNW/ - Canada's men and women have served our country with bravery, honour and dignity. The Invictus Games provides an opportunity for Canadians to celebrate Veterans and still serving members/soldiers from Canada and other nations for their courage and determination and not be defined by their injuries.
Today, the Honourable Kent Hehr, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, announced Government of Canada funding in support of the Invictus Games Toronto 2017. The Government of Canada will contribute up to $17.5 million to support the Invictus Games Toronto 2017 Organizing Committee in bringing this major international adaptive sporting event to Canada.
First established by Prince Harry in 2014, the Games in Toronto will include 550 ill and injured still-serving members/soldiers and Veterans and 1,100 family and friend spectators from 17 participating nations.
Quotes
"Invictus is Latin for unconquered. The brave men and women of the Canadian Armed Forces face many challenges, and life-changing injuries. The Invictus Games gives Canadians the opportunity to witness the pursuit of Invictus while honouring all who push through their barriers."
Kent Hehr, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence
"As we celebrate Canada 150, hosting events like the Toronto 2017 Invictus Games helps highlight what makes communities all across the country so unique, diverse and vibrant. We can all learn from the resilience and pride of these athletes, and I am so pleased to welcome competitors from all over the world to Toronto."
Mélanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage
Quick Facts
- His Royal Highness Prince Henry of Wales was joined by the Right Honourable Justin Trudeau in May of 2016 to announce Toronto as host for the third Invictus Games.
- Canada is proud to host the games in 2017, which marks Canada 150, to give all Canadians an opportunity to pay tribute to ill and injured still-serving and Veteran members of the Canadian Armed Forces and their families.
- From September 23-30, 2017, competitors from 17 nations will compete in 12 adaptive sports at multiple venues across the Greater Toronto area.
- Veterans Affairs Canada is contributing up to $15 million through its Commemorative Partnership Program over three years starting in FY 2015/2016.
- Canadian Heritage is contributing $2.5 million through the Canada 150 Fund for the opening and closing ceremonies.
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Associated Links
- Veterans Affairs Canada - Commemorative Partnership Program
- Heritage Canada – Canada 150 Fund
- Invictus Games Foundation
- Invictus Games Toronto 2017
SOURCE Veterans Affairs Canada
Contacts : Sarah McMaster, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs, 613-996-4649; Media Relations, Veterans Affairs Canada, 613-992-7468, [email protected]; Stephanie D'Lima, Manager, Communications & Engagement, Invictus Games Toronto 2017 Organizing Committee, 416-364-0001 ext. 61
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