Ontario Adds Sport To Tourism And Culture
Teams face off for a chance to play at the provincial level during the 2015 Northwestern Ontario Secondary School Athletic Association (NWOSSAA) Boys Volleyball Championships. Photo OntarioNewsNorth.com
McGuinty Government Recognizes Role Of Sport In Strengthening Economy
Premier Dalton McGuinty announced today that the Honourable Michael Chan, Minister of Tourism and Culture, will assume responsibility for the portfolio of sport in the province.
Ontario is host to marquee and blockbuster events that showcase our rich culture and promote the province as an international travel destination. It’s also home to talented athletes, coaches, officials and sports organizations. Aligning tourism, culture and sport will help the ministry take a leading role in enhancing economic growth and business across the province.
With a strong presence at the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic Games, Ontario is preparing to stage the 2015 Pan/Parapan Am Games. Minister Chan will work closely with the minister responsible for the Games, Minister Charles Sousa, to ensure they are a memorable success.
Ontario is taking decisive action to explore opportunities that will increase job creation and enhance the positive economic impact that comes with hosting high profile sporting events.
QUICK FACTS
- The responsibility for health promotion activities will be assigned to the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care.
- Tourism is an important part of Ontario’s economy — supporting over 330,000 jobs in 2010 — an increase of 5 per cent over 2009.
- The culture sector contributes over $20 billion annually to Ontario’s economy.
- More than 10,000 athletes, coaches and delegates from the Caribbean and Central, South and North America will compete in 48 sports at the Pan/Parapan Games.
