Canada Moving Forward with Planning for Delhi Commonwealth Games
OTTAWA…December 30, 2009 – Media reports suggesting that England is poised to withdraw from next year’s Commonwealth Games in Delhi, India would appear to be “completely unfounded,” according to a senior official with Commonwealth Games Canada (CGC).
“I am reassured by published statements from Ann Hogbin, the Chief Executive of England’s Commonwealth Games Association, confirming that they’re moving full-steam ahead with planning for Delhi next October,” said Thomas Jones, CGC’s Chief Executive Officer.
Mr. Jones added that security remains one of the top priorities for the expert team coordinating Canada’s preparations for the 2010 Commonwealth Games. “We’re keeping a very close eye on the situation and tracking security preparations in collaboration with our colleagues at the RCMP. They’re monitoring the situation closely and will be providing expert analysis and advice as the Games get closer,” he noted. “It’s all part of our commitment to an unprecedented level of planning and preparation to ensure optimal conditions for Canadian athletes to perform at their best.”
In October, senior Canadian officials attended a major Commonwealth Games Federation event in Delhi and were impressed with the comprehensive security arrangements. A month earlier, an RCMP Security Liaison Officer travelled to Delhi to participate in a security conference where Games organizers committed to take whatever steps are necessary to ensure a safe and secure environment.
For more information:
Thomas Jones Derek Johnston
Chief Executive Officer CGC Communications
Commonwealth Games Canada (613) 837-3377
(613) 882-7181 derek@face-value.ca
