Minister welcomes Tunstall's apology

18/8/94

Sport and Recreation Minister Norman Moore has welcomed the apology by Australian Commonwealth Games Chief Arthur Tunstall for unacceptable comments about athletes with disabilities.

Mr Moore said today that Western Australians were understandably shocked at Mr Tunstall's comments that the Commonwealth Games athletes with disabilities were an 'embarrassment'.

"Had he not apologised today, I would have pushed to have him sent home from the Games forthwith, because his comments went against the whole spirit of the Games which are about participation, striving for excellence and sportsmanship," the Minister said.

"This State can be justifiably proud of the performance record of its disabled athletes and it could be argued that sportspeople with disabilities have to work even harder to excel than others.

"Our elite athletes with disabilities have demonstrated they are among the best in the world."

The State Government was committed to supporting and encouraging sportspeople across the board, including those with disabilities, and their sporting achievements were a source of national and State pride.

Media contact:  Ross Storey 421 1444 / 222 9595