Mr. Speaker, from March 9 to 11, 2007, Salaberry-de-Valleyfield will be hosting the Special Olympics Provincial Winter Games under the theme “My sport, my passion, my victories”.
This major sports event will bring together 370 athletes with an intellectual disability and over 350 coaches and volunteers.
In Quebec, more than 3,600 athletes with an intellectual disability train and participate regularly in one or more of the 14 sports. For the Bloc Québécois, the Special Olympics are more than just a sports competition. This organization helps athletes realize their potential and gain the confidence needed to integrate into society.
It is with joy that I welcome the families, trainers, attendants, and particularly the athletes. I hope as many people as possible will attend and that everyone really enjoys the Games.