The funding was announced during the recent 2010 Canadian Paralympic Congress in Ottawa, which was attended by leaders in sport and disability organisations from across the country, and follows the financial commitment announced by the Federal Budget on March 4.

CPC President Carla Qualtrough admitted her delight at the announcement and claimed the new funding, which will total $25 million (£15.5 million), has triggered the most ambitious plan in the history of the organisation.

"Our vision is to be the world-leading Paralympic nation," she said.

"This means more than gold medals.

"It means having success on the world stage, as well as having a sustainable Paralympic sport system that encourages participation, provides access to the best equipment, coaches and leadership and celebrates the accomplishment of our nation's Paralympians.

"We have all been inspired by their recent successes, notably at the Vancouver 2010 Winter Games and the Commonwealth Games in Delhi.

"This additional investment will ensure that the CPC has the tools that it needs to continue to build on these triumphs, and to encourage more persons with disabilities to actively participate in sport."

The funding boost means more children with disabilities will have the opportunity to participate in sport while the CPC have stated they will now focus specifically on enhancing podium performances at Paralympics, building a world-class Paralympic sport system, creating a sustainable business model for the CPC and expanding the awareness of Paralympic sport and building the reputation of CPC.

Legendary Canadian wheelchair racer Chantal Petitclerc (pictured), the winner of 21 Paralympic medals, said: "The Federal Government's commitment represents a new era for the Paralympic Movement in Canada.

"It is very encouraging to see that up and coming athletes will have this type of support from their Government and I am thrilled to see Paralympic sport receive this kind of recognition."

The funding increase demonstrates that encouraging healthy lifestyles for the 3.6 million Canadians living with disabilities through promotion of sport and recreation remains a priority for this government and reflects the growing pride and support of Canadians for the Canadian Paralympic Team.

Qualtrough continued: "This is a significant day as it marks the beginning of a very bright future for us.

"It will empower us to enhance the podium performance of the Canadian Paralympic team as well as to work closely with our partners to raise the awareness of the opportunities available in sport for Canadians with a disability.

"Our Government is proud to support our Canadian Paralympic athletes."

Contact the writer of this story [email protected]