Statement made on 17 June 2009 by Senator Catherine Callbeck
Hon. Catherine S. Callbeck:
Honourable senators, this summer from August 15 to 29, Prince Edward Island will be playing host to the 2009 Canada Summer Games, which are expected to attract upwards of 5,000 athletes from across Canada, together with their officials, families and friends. P.E.I. is proud to be hosting this prestigious national sporting event. It will be Island-wide, with venues for different sports held in communities across the province.
Since their beginning in Quebec City, during Canada's centennial year in 1967, more than 50,000 young Canadians have participated in the summer and winter games. The games provide a unique opportunity for young Canadians to develop their abilities and engage in friendly competition with other young people from across the country. The games also provide a stimulus for Canadian young people to reach their athletic potential, pursue personal excellence and develop their social and culture ties with others from across the country.
The summer and winter games have also left a legacy for the host communities. Nearly $120 million has been invested in capital projects for the various sporting events. Sports facilities have been built across Canada, which have been invaluable for growth in sports excellence and fitness in those communities.
In conjunction with the Canada Summer Games, a cultural arts festival will be taking place in various venues across the province. Island artists, performers and chefs will showcase our rich and varied cultural traditions through the visual, performing and culinary arts.
The province hosted the Canada Winter Games in 1991, and is looking forward to hosting its first-ever summer games. Although Prince Edward Island is Canada's smallest province, Islanders have lots of experience in hosting regional, national and international sporting events.
A team of committed volunteers has been busily preparing for the Canada Summer Games. About 6,000 Island volunteers look forward to welcoming people from across the country and beyond to enjoy the games and the many other attractions the Island has to offer.
Honourable senators, I wish to recognize the efforts of these young athletes, their coaches, families and the P.E.I. volunteers. I am sure that, together, they will make the Canada Summer Games a great success. I also invite all Canadians to come celebrate the 2009 Canada Summer Games in August and visit the beautiful province of Prince Edward Island.