Feb 2010 - Olympics

February 10, 2010

Photo courtesy of Virginia Booth (Hot Shoe Photography)



Dear Friends,

As 2010 gets underway, I would like to update you on the progress of your government in Ottawa.  Canadians’ number one priority remains the economy, and we are tackling the challenges of the global economic recession head on.

Although Canadians and their families continue to be significantly affected by the downturn, a fragile recovery is indicated by modest improvements in both employment and output.  These improvements are a testament to the success of our Economic Action Plan, but our work is far from over.  New challenges demand new ideas, guided by a new agenda for the Government of Canada.  The 2010 Speech from the Throne will recalibrate Parliament and its priorities, ensuring that Canada is prepared for a strong economic recovery and a return to balanced budgets.

Before we return to Parliament to tackle the tough issues facing everyday Canadians, we, as Canadians, will welcome the world to Vancouver for the 2010 Winter Olympic Games.  Although the Games will be staged in Vancouver and Whistler, they are Canada’s Games and will present an unparalleled opportunity to celebrate and showcase Canadian athletic, artistic and cultural excellence on a national and international scale.  The Games will also create shared and lasting legacies for Canadian communities, businesses and citizens across the entire country.

This year’s Games will feature 15 exciting events, from alpine skiing to speed skating.  2500 volunteers will welcome 5000 officials and athletes from over 80 countries.  The Winter Olympics offers something for everyone – from the pageantry of the Opening Ceremony, to the elegance of figure skating and the excitement of luge.  And of course, who could forget about hockey?

In 2010, Canada’s Olympians will compete against the world’s best, and Canada has ambitious goals for success. Through the Own the Podium initiative, Canada aims to achieve athletic excellence by finishing first in the medal count.

While our athletes vie for gold in the ultimate athletic competition, Vancouver will showcase the best of Canadian culture to the world.  The 2010 Cultural Olympiad features an unparalleled selection of music, dance, theatre, visual arts, film, and outdoor spectaculars.  Unprecedented partnership with Aboriginal people and a wide variety of educational programs for youth will ensure that all Canadians are included in the celebration.
I am confident that Canadians will triumph here at home.  As the world descends on Vancouver for our Olympic celebration, I will be traveling the country in my role as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Finance participating in national pre-budget consultations with Canadians - in fact, I have been travelling the country since the middle of December chairing these consultations.  I will also be spending time in Macleod, meeting with constituents to learn their priorities for the upcoming session. 
As always, I am available if you have any concerns you wish to discuss.  I encourage everyone to cheer on our athletes as they strive for excellence, and most importantly – enjoy the Games!

Ted