"On behalf of all Canadians, I want to congratulate Jamie Salé and David Pelletier on this wonderful news.

The decision by the IOC merely confirms what we all knew in our hearts: that these two extraordinary young talents put on a gold medal performance for the world. When Aline and I saw the grace and style of their routine, we knew we had seen something truly special. And we could not be happier than to know that they are receiving the recognition they so richly deserve.

But this episode has been about much more than increasing Canada’s medal count. It is a triumph for the incredible sportsmanship and class that Jamie Salé and David Pelletier have shown in the face of an extraordinary situation. They are Olympians in the truest sense. They have done themselves, their families and their country proud."