President of the Jamaica Paralympic Association (JPA), Christopher Samuda, has described the move to form the Jamaica Para Toronto Federation - which will inaugurate a drive to incorporate other federations in other major cities around the world - as historic.

The announcement was made during a courtesy call which Team Jamaica paid to Jamaica Consul General Lloyd Wilks, at the Jamaica Consulate in Toronto yesterday.

Wilks endorsed the move and pledged The Consolate's support in advancing the interest of the JPA, the Paralympic movement in Jamaica, and the diaspora in Canada - particularly Toronto.

Samuda said Jamaica Para Toronto Federation is the start and a part of a strategic vision which the JPA has in advancing athlete support and welfare, and signals what he anticipates will be the robust growth of 'Jam Paralympism' beyond the shores of Jamaica.

"I am excited at the prospect of greater opportunities for the JPA to develop its athletic programmes and funding mechanisms, as well as enhancing its profile for the betterment of our athletes, who are central to our vision and mission of the JPA," said Samuda.

Roger Shaw, a Jamaican residing in Canada, and one of the major Jamaican players in the formation of the Jamaica Para Toronto Federation, said: "This is our contribution to Jamaica and Paralympism and we are entirely devoted to the cause."

Team Jamaica was introduced to the members of the Consulate, who expressed pleasure in meeting national representatives of a sporting movement.

The Diaspora Paralympic Movement will continue, and reports are that Miami, Atlanta, London and Paris are on the strategic map.