Mr. Speaker, it is my honour to rise today to congratulate the federal government for its decision to support Toronto's bid to host the 2008 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games.
These games are an occasion where athletes come together in the spirit of sportsmanship to compete for the title of the world's best. The Olympic Games would give Toronto the opportunity to host a celebration of world sport and culture in 2008 and create a legacy for our future.
The 10,000 athletes, 5,000 coaches and staff, 50,000 volunteers and an additional 50,000 sponsors and guests create a force for Toronto's bid which is undeniable.
With the strength of our team, the success of this bid would showcase our leading edge expertise, technology, creativity and innovation on the world stage. This would foster the excellence of Canadian talent and integrate our heritage and cultural achievements into all aspects of the vision of the games.
The engagement of Toronto's communities, neighbourhoods and residents would allow us to celebrate our athletes, city and country with the world. It is time to share Canada's best kept secret, the city of Toronto, with the rest of the world.