International event will promote tourism & inclusion: Sullivan
Mayor Sam Sullivan and Vancouver Councillor B.C. Lee today invited Canadians to contact www.samsullivan.ca and support Vancouver’s bid to host the 2008 Paralympic Torch Relay.
The Beijing Organizing Committee of Olympic Games (BOCOG) is planning to hold an unprecedented 2008 Paralympic Games Torch Relay which will be carried out both in China and select international locations next summer.
By logging on www.mayorsamsullivan, members of the public can send a message in English or Chinese which the Mayor will forward to BOCOG in support of Vancouver’s application.
“Hosting the 2008 Paralympic Games torch relay will promote our city, our province and Canada as one of the most inclusive and accessible societies in the world,” said Mayor Sullivan. “In addition to increased tourism, the torch relay will build community spirit in advance of 2010.
Yesterday, City Council agreed to submit a formal expression of interest to the Beijing Organizing Committee of Olympic Games (BOCOG). City staff will also conduct a general assessment of local resources required and organizational responsibility. Mayor Sullivan has also appointed Councillor Lee to lead a series of stakeholder meetings over the summer.
“I want to encourage Vancouver families and business people to express their support for this important opportunity,” said Councillor Lee. “We look forward to working with other Olympic and Paralympic stakeholders including Canada, Province of BC, VANOC, Canadian Paralympic Committee, Four Host First Nations and Whistler.”
People with disabilities spend an estimated $13 billion/year in North America on travel. Vancouver is hosting the Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2010.
