Smith to chair IPC’s Paralympic Games Committee

The role of the Paralympic Games Committee, PGC, is to provide advice to the IPC Governing Board on policy matters in relation to the Paralympic Games and to advise the Paralympic Games Co-ordination Director on operational aspects of the Paralympic Games Programme.

The PGC also provides recommendations regarding the general concepts and strategies related to the Paralympic Games, thus guiding the IPC activities and defining the parameters for the further development of the Paralympic Games. It provides advice on the collaboration and level of integration with the IOC for any aspects related to the Games as well as acts as a representative of the Games’ key constituent groups and as a liaison between them dealing with questions regarding client service levels and quality standards.

The PGC also reviews and approves the strategic direction and key concepts (eg ceremonies and the look of the Games) of the local organising committees within the framework set by the IPC Governing Board.

Smith said he was honoured to be named the chair of the PGC. “The IPC is an amazing organisation with incredible people. I am delighted to upgrade my working relationship with the IPC and try to contribute my little bit to the wonderful phenomenon of the Paralympic Games.”

Smith will chair the ten-member committee. The process is currently under way to select the committee members.