Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to rise in the House today to congratulate the city of Halifax, Nova Scotia, which was named the host city of the Women's World Hockey Championships in 2004.
As the House is well aware women's ice hockey is one of Canada's fastest growing sports and our best are also the world's best having won gold at the recent winter olympic games in Salt Lake City.
The Canadian Hockey Association announced on April 5 that the city of Halifax will host the Women's World Hockey Championships in March and April 2004. Halifax has always been a great sport city and has successfully hosted many national and international sport events. Halifax is also hosting the upcoming 2003 Junior Men's World Championships and is now positioned as a leader in hosting international events.
I am sure all members will join me in congratulating the city of Halifax, the Canadian Hockey Association and all female hockey players, coaches and volunteers on bringing the world's best to Canada in 2004.