Good question.
I don't know the answer, but it could have something to do with Russian's interest in Mars.

Perhaps it has more to do with our interest in Mars? While Gary warned us about the rumor, and I am somewhat skeptical. Perhaps the canadians know something. Perhaps they think it is inevitable we will go considering Russinas interest.

If we were to launch a Manned mission to Mars, in the interest of cost, we may be looking for some partners. By establishing themselves as a nation whose sent stuff there before, they qualify for a bigger part than just contibuting a robotic arms. Furthermore, during the Canadarm instalation on ISS, it seems to me someone commented that a canadian in space couldn't spit without getting a full blown write up about it. Indeed there was an awful lot of coverage of the fact they were canadians. Perhaps they are rather confident their help is desired and welcomed after the overwhelming coverage NASA gave their contribution?

Of course this is all wild speculation. Goldin came out ans said we will go to mars by 2020 as well and I didn't beleive him, I regard the russians word as no better. It is goo d not to get to wrappe dup in the speculation, although it is fun :-)

-Justin Kelly