The Canadian government announced a plan to increase Aboriginal participation in sports with an investment of $ 12 million over five years.
Stephen Owen, Minister of Western Economic Diversification and Minister of State (Sport), said in Vancouver May 7 that the money will finance sport policy initiatives for equity improvement as well as provide Aboriginal persons’ with increased access to sports.
“If we reduce existing barriers that prevent Aboriginal persons from having access to sports programs, we help ensure that they can enjoy the health and social benefits of sport participation,” said Owen.
The policy on Aboriginal Peoples’ Participation in Sport was developed in consultation with representatives from the Aboriginal Sport Circle, provincial and territorial service governments, and provincial and territorial Aboriginal sport bodies, amongst other organizations.
