QUESTION PERIOD — Canadian Heritage
Funding for Sports
March 11, 2026
Senator Moreau, at the Milano Cortina Olympic Games, Canada had its lowest Winter Olympics medal count since 2002. For years, sports federations have been sounding the alarm. Needs are skyrocketing and costs are rising, but public funding for sport has been stagnant for over 20 years. Our success in sports is a source of pride and international exposure, but how much longer will the government leave our athletes to fend for themselves? Will it finally commit to making investments worthy of our ambitions?
Thank you for your question, Senator Petitclerc. I would like to echo the sentiments expressed by our colleagues yesterday, who recognized in your remarks how inspiring you are to all Canadians and to those who proudly represent Canada during the Paralympic Games.
Far be it from me to impose my perspective on you, but I’m sure you will agree that the success of our athletes does not depend on the number of medals they win at the Olympics. Anyone can see that the difference between a gold medal and fourth place is often a matter of thousandths of a second.
According to the information I have on direct funding to athletes, it has increased by 45% in recent years and it allows more athletes to train for international competitions without worrying about the cost of living. In addition, direct funding for athletes has to be itemized.
Thank you, Senator Moreau. Direct funding for athletes who are part of national teams has indeed increased, but what about funding for sports federations? For example, Norway’s investments are geared toward enabling kids to grow up within a system, and Norway is the best in the world. Shouldn’t we follow suit?
You took the words right out of my mouth. We should always be inspired by the best. The thing is, the government has to make choices. I believe that, in setting out to support high-level athletes, the government is doing exactly as you suggest. I will certainly convey your question to the minister responsible.
