The World's Commonwealth Sport Leaders Coming to Edmonton in 2016

Edmonton to host Commonwealth Games Federation’s 2016 General Assembly

Edmonton, September 2, 2015 - Edmonton has been selected as the host city for the Commonwealth Games Federation’s 2016 General Assembly. The decision was made late last night during the 2015 General Assembly in Auckland, New Zealand. “This is an exciting opportunity for us to reinforce our commitment to being active partners in advancing the vision for the Commonwealth Games and to showcase the city of Edmonton and Canada,” saysMayor Don Iveson. “Our city is a great host and I am confident that together with our partners –

Commonwealth Games Canada, Edmonton Tourism and Edmonton International Airports – we will provide everyone with many memorable experiences and a worry-free Assembly.”City Council voted unanimously earlier this year to support the submission of a bid with costs being paid from the budget assigned to the 2022 Games bid. Edmonton withdrew its bid to host the 2022 Games in February 2015 due to the impact of the global decline in oil prices.

“We appreciate the confidence the Commonwealth Games Federation has put in us by awarding Canada and Edmonton the right to host next year’s General Assembly,” says Rick Powers, Chair of Commonwealth Games Canada. Dates for the 2016 Assembly have not yet been confirmed but it is expected that the conference will bring up to 300 delegates to Edmonton including Federation officials, Commonwealth Games delegates and guests.

David Grevemberg, Chief Executive of the Commonwealth Games Federation said:  “We’re delighted tosupport the ambitions of Edmonton and to be returning to Canada – where the Commonwealth Games first began – for the 2016 CGF General Assembly as part of our continued commitment to engage with CGAs, communities and potential bid cities from across the Commonwealth. “

Media contact:

Ronna Bremer

Corporate Communications

Ronna.Bremer@edmonton.ca

780.944.7753