LONDON, Sept. 9, 2012 /CNW/ - As the London 2012 Paralympic Summer Games officially come to a close, I would like to offer my most heartfelt congratulations to our entire Canadian Paralympic Team for their successes at these Games.

Our athletes embodied the Paralympic values of courage, determination, inspiration, and equality, and many of their outstanding performances resulted in spectacular podium finishes. Canada won 31 medals in total.

I was honoured to attend the Games and cheer on our athletes. I would like to thank Team Canada's biggest fans—their families and friends—for making such a vital contribution to these athletes' achievements.

Tonight, our Canadian Paralympic Team will join with athletes representing 164 countries at the closing ceremony, where all nations will come together in a celebration of their spectacular achievements. Congratulations to Benoît Huot, who will carry the Canadian flag at the Closing Ceremony. He won three medals in swimming and is a talented athlete, fierce competitor, and a wonderful ambassador for sport in Canada.

Our Government is proud to support the Canadian Paralympic Team. Along with all Canadians across the country, we congratulate them on their remarkable achievements and celebrate their contributions to the world of sport.

SOURCE Canadian Heritage