CPC applauds support of Canadian Government

"For Canada to have a podium full of medallists, we have to have a playground full of kids playing para-sport," said Legg. "Building podium potential athletes is a long-term commitment, and more than ever, we need to continue to grow our support toward our next generation of Paralympic heroes."

The Canadian Paralympic Committee (CPC) applauds the Harper Government for its continued investment in providing opportunities for active living for Canadians with an impairment.

"We are very grateful for the Canadian Government's ongoing commitment towards the Paralympic Movement in Canada," said David Legg, President of the Canadian Paralympic Committee.

"This budget clearly demonstrates a strong willingness by the Federal Government to renew its funding towards the CPC's efforts in developing a stronger para-sport system across Canada, while ensuring that our Paralympians receive the necessary support and have access to an optimal environment to excel on the world stage."

The recent London 2012 Paralympic Games proved that the world of Paralympic sport is changing rapidly and Canada needs to follow suit in order to keep its place as a leading nation.

"For Canada to have a podium full of medallists, we have to have a playground full of kids playing para-sport," said Legg. "Building podium potential athletes is a long-term commitment, and more than ever, we need to continue to grow our support toward our next generation of Paralympic heroes."

As such, the CPC will continue to work in the critical areas of athlete recruitment, development and retention, as well as supporting coaches through education.

"By investing in para-sport, we are also investing in our communities, in health, in fitness, in diversity, in accessibility and inclusion," noted Legg.

The Paralympic Movement has seen a substantial growth in Canada in recent years. The CPC is committed to building on this momentum as its athletes get set to inspire Canadians once again through world-leading performances at the Sochi 2014 Paralympic Winter Games and at home at the Toronto 2015 Parapan American Games.