NEWS RELEASE
2014 Commonwealth Games Bid Update
(Wednesday, February 28, 2007) - A team of independent consultants is evaluating the 2014 Commonwealth Games bid on behalf of the three levels of government. The municipal, provincial and federal partners hired the consultants in early February after receiving the proposed budget.
Assessment results are expected to be delivered to government partners by mid- to late March. The evaluation is necessary to meet due diligence requirements established when Halifax became Canada's bid city for the 2014 Games.
"The province and HRM have said from the start that we would support a bid that does not compromise the province's fiscal position, is the right size for Nova Scotia and leaves a lasting legacy for residents," said Duff Montgomerie, deputy minister, Health Promotion and Protection. "The risk assessments currently underway will provide us with the independent, expert advice we need to determine the most appropriate next steps."
The evaluation includes an Economic Impact Assessment study which will outline the economic benefits expected from hosting the 2014 Games.
"As a result of this new timeline, the scheduled March 6 presentation of the bid, and subsequent analysis to regional council, will have to be postponed," said Dan English, Halifax Regional Municipality's chief administrative officer. "Until we've received all of the relevant information from external reviews, HRM staff cannot complete its detailed analysis. Once that is done, council will be in a better position to make effective and well-informed decisions on behalf of taxpayers."
During the next two weeks, the 2014 Bid Society will meet with the consultants to respond to any questions before the finalization of the reports. Final budget costs will be released after funding partners have reviewed the findings, discussed their positions and reached an agreement on next steps.
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Contact:
Tracey Taweel
Health Promotion and Protection
902-424-4410
E-mail: taweeltl@gov.ns.ca
John O'Brien
Halifax Regional Municipality
902-490-6531
E-mail: obrienj@halifax.ca
