CHARLOTTETOWN, September 20, 2013 – The Honourable Bal Gosal, Minister of State (Sport), and the Honourable Doug Currie, Prince Edward Island’s Minister of Health and Wellness, today announced contributions from the Government of Canada and Government of Prince Edward Island for sport development and participation in the province. Also present at the announcement was the Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans.

“Working with provincial and territorial governments to advance important priorities for sport and physical activity in Canada is something our Government is proud to do. We want to make sport participation and athlete development a part of Canadians’ everyday lives,” said Minister of State Gosal. “Today’s funding announcement clearly demonstrates that we are committed to working together with all levels of government to achieve this common goal. Sport participation and active living are important elements in keeping our communities and children healthy and active.”

“Participation in sport helps develop skills such as leadership and teamwork, as well as discipline, hard work, and commitment. These are qualities that have lifelong benefits and help build strong, vibrant, and healthy communities,” said Minister Currie. “The Province of Prince Edward Island is pleased to renew this bilateral agreement and to continue supporting the efforts of our local sport organizations and our communities so we can increase participation and access to sport across our province.”

“This bilateral agreement between the Government of Canada and the Province of Prince Edward Island will allow us to build on our existing sport foundation,” said Minister Shea. “It will enhance the delivery of programs and services, and contribute to long-lasting social, economic, and cultural and community impacts right across the Island.”

The three-year renewed bilateral agreement with Prince Edward Island involves a federal investment of $771,735 ($257,245 per year) with a matching contribution from Prince Edward Island, for a total of $1,543,470.

Photo (from Twitter @BalGosal):  The Honourable Bal Gosal, Minister of State (Sport), Amy Duncan, Executive Director, Curl PEI

While on PEI today, Minister of State Gosal took part in a roundtable discussion with representatives from a number of provincial sporting organizations, including Curl PEI.