Hon. Victor Oh: Honourable senators, I rise today to congratulate our athletes on their outstanding performance in the Olympic Winter Games. I know Canadians are all feeling the weight of current affairs, from the pandemic to the convoy protest and, merely days ago, the world faced the horror of Putin’s illegal and unprovoked invasion of a free and democratic neighbouring country.

These are, to say the very least, challenging times. Personally, I felt the Olympics were a moment of reprieve for all of us, a time to forget the ever-present struggles and to lose ourselves in the magic of sport. We cheered, our children dreamed and we watched in awe of the ability of athletes from around the world. It was the proudest of moments to see 26 Canadians take the podium to receive their hard-earned medals. To the entire Olympic team, Canada is proud and congratulates you on your remarkable achievements.

But, senators, I would like to remind you that there is more Olympic spirit on the horizon. On March 4, the 2022 Paralympic Winter Games will begin. This will be yet another opportunity to cheer on our athletes and admire the remarkable ability of Paralympic Games’ athletes.

As most will know, this chamber is home to a Paralympian, Senator Chantal Petitclerc, who has 21 medals to her credit. Her story and good deeds continue to be an inspiration to our young athletes.

Colleagues, I would be remiss if I didn’t also mention our Special Olympians and their Kazan World Winter Games. Each Special Olympics are very important pillars in our communities. They foster physical fitness through competitive sports, further social and life skills for children and adults with intellectual disabilities; yet another example of how sports can reach us, our life and community.

On the eve of the Paralympic Games, I would like to wish the best of luck to our Canadian Paralympians. Thank you.