Released on June 18, 2008
The Government of Saskatchewan is pleased to announce today that it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (VANOC). The MOU confirms Saskatchewan's commitment to involving the people of its province in this once-in-a-generation opportunity to feature all of Canada on the world stage.
The MOU identifies a number of areas of potential collaboration and outlines opportunities to showcase Saskatchewan's cultural and artistic vitality, and promote the province as a world-class tourist destination. It is also a chance to highlight Saskatchewan's economic development and trade potential, provide opportunities for local coaches, athletes and volunteers, and participate in the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torch Relay when it passes through Saskatchewan communities.
"Saskatchewan is a leader in Canada - in both economic prowess and ingenuity," Premier Brad Wall said. "We are excited to partner with VANOC and join with other provinces and territories across this nation to help make the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games - truly Canada's Games."
"Saskatchewan has a dynamic and modern culture that is rooted deeply in the history of its people, and that is expressed through the creativity and imagination of our artists and performers," Tourism, Parks, Culture and Sport Minister Christine Tell said. "I am pleased that Canadians and international visitors will have the opportunity to experience Saskatchewan's art and culture while in Vancouver, and I have no doubt that it will help guide their decision to visit our great province."
"Our vision is to engage every Canadian in the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, and today, with the inclusion of Saskatchewan, we are yet another step closer to reaching that goal," VANOC Chief Executive Officer John Furlong said. "We are thrilled to see such enthusiasm and engagement in the Games from the people of Saskatchewan and we look forward to learning from your experience and success in hosting major sporting and cultural events."
About VANOC
VANOC's government partners provide funding, infrastructure, essential service support and management services to the 2010 Winter Games, which will contribute to the lasting economic, sport, cultural and social legacies for citizens and communities throughout British Columbia and Canada. VANOC's government partners include the Government of Canada, the Province of British Columbia, the City of Vancouver and the Resort Municipality of Whistler. To date, members of VANOC's Contributing Province/Territory Program include Manitoba and Ontario. VANOC's Venue Cities are Richmond, Surrey and West Vancouver. VANOC has also signed an MOU with each Canadian province and territory.
VANOC is responsible for the planning, organizing, financing and staging of the XXI Olympic Winter Games and the X Paralympic Winter Games in 2010. The Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games will be staged in Vancouver and Whistler from February 12 to 28, 2010. Vancouver and Whistler will host the Paralympic Winter Games from March 12 to 21, 2010. Visit www.vancouver2010.com.
-30-
For more information, contact:
Janice Wilby
Tourism, Parks, Culture and Sport
Regina
Phone: 306-787-5781
Email: janice.wilby@gov.sk.ca
Katie Green
VANOC
Vancouver
Phone: 778-328-6473
Email: katie_green@vancouver2010.com