Reception given in Honour of the Members of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC)

Vancouver, Friday, March 12, 2010

Less than two weeks after the closing ceremony of the Olympic Winter Games, the sacred flame of Olympism is warming hearts once again, as the X Paralympic Winter Games are about to open in just a few moments.

I have just returned from a mission in Haiti, and I am deeply touched by the spirit of solidarity that is being demonstrated, both within Haitian society, here at home in Canada, and among the international community.

And I find that same spirit of solidarity today among the Paralympic family, and it gives me great pleasure to welcome you on behalf of Canada and Canadians. 

The capacity of Paralympic athletes to push the limits of human performance is extraordinary. I have just spent some time talking with them in the village and it was very inspiring!

Each event is an opportunity to excel, and I believe the time has come to recognize them for what they are, which is athletes in their own right.

This is the first time Canada is hosting the Paralympic Winter Games, and we have made every effort to ensure their success.

Among other things, I am delighted that these Games will be broadcast throughout the country.

That is another first, and I am convinced it will help to change the way Canadians look at Paralympic athletes and their sports.

We will discover that Olympic and Paralympic athletes are motivated by the same desire, the same commitment, and the same goals.

We will also see that the performances and disciplines are just as spectacular.

For example, skiing downhill at 100 km/h is already a remarkable feat in itself, but to do it sitting down, on a monoski, or blind, assisted by a guide, is quite simply incredible.

There will certainly be intense pressure and fierce competition, as both the number of athletes and the level of excellence continue to rise at each edition of the Paralympic Winter Games.

It will be a great moment in sport!

I believe that the more the Paralympic movement grows, the closer we come to the dream of Sir Ludwig Guttman, the Pierre de Coubertin of the Paralympic Games, who saw sporting competition as a powerful force for integration.

Originally designed as a therapeutic activity, the Paralympic Games have become a world-class sporting event.

Your very presence here, as members of the International Paralympic Committee representing the competing countries, reflects that evolution.

My friends, rest assured that the success of the Vancouver Paralympic Winter Games will be commensurate with Canada's commitment and leadership within the Paralympic movement.

It is not only about excellence, but about fairness and access for these women and men for whom every day is already a lesson in determination.

I thank you, and offer my best wishes for success!