Question Period Note: VALOUR GAMES

• I was pleased to learn of the Province of Ontario’s support for the Valour Games.

• The Department is reviewing a request for federal government funding for the 2022 Games.

• I understand the importance of sport in helping individuals through the recovery process, which is why we have supported both the Invictus Games and the Warrior Games with more than $20 million dollars in recent years.

• Veteran athletes and their families offer incredible insights and personal experiences into the transition journey to post-military life. Sharing their stories can help other Veterans, who may be struggling, with their own journey.

• Supporting Invictus and Warrior Games athletes is a form of recognition and commemoration—they are modern Veterans representing Canada and we can all be proud of their tremendous accomplishments.

BACKGROUND - VALOUR GAMES

The core leadership team that delivered the international 2017 Invictus Games in Toronto, Ontario has proposed a domestic version of these games for Canada—the Valour Games. The Games would initially be held in 2022 in Ottawa Ontario.

The organizing committee consists of:
• Michael Burns, Chair (former CEO, 2017 Invictus Games in Toronto);
• Dena Coward, President (former COO, 2017 Invictus Games in Toronto); and
• James Eaton, Honorary Chair (former Chair, 2017 Invictus Games in Toronto).

The total planned budget is $25.0M over two years, with funding flowing as follows:
• redacted
• $3.0M – financial support from Ontario provincial government – announcing November 6; a letter of support from the province indicates their funding is contingent on securing federal support); and
• redacted
If the 2022 Games are successful, the organizers are expected to request funding from the Government of Canada and others, to support future games in a different city in Canada in 2024 and 2026.
The 2022 Valour Games will provide up to 350 ill, injured or wounded CAF members and Veterans with an opportunity to compete in a national adaptive sport competition. Each CAF member/Veteran athlete will be able to be accompanied by two family members or friends to offer support, and to show gratitude and support for the sacrifices made by these families and friends themselves. The organization expects to partner with a variety of groups and organizations to help deliver and promote the Games, including: Indigenous communities, the CAF, art and cultural communities, Veterans groups, youth organizations, and corporate and community partners in order to reach as many Canadian as possible.

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