WIREDGOV

Scotland is on track to reap long lasting rewards because of early investment in the legacy of the Commonwealth Games.

Commonwealth Games Minister Shona Robison today set out the Scottish Government’s legacy programmes with 174 days to go until the start of the Games.

•  So far there are 64 new and improved physical activity facilities thanks to the £10 million Active Places Fund with many more projects able to bid for funding in 2014 and 2015

•  Around 250,000 children are benefiting from the national Game on Scotland educational programme.

•  £256 million out of £307 million of Games related contracts (83%) - have been awarded to 400 companies across Scotland.

•  A lasting community and sporting legacy for the East End of Glasgow.

•  5000 tickets for those who are participating and benefitting from Legacy 2014 programmes, through the Scottish Government’s Legacy Ticket scheme

The Minister said, 
“As the Games draw closer it’s clear that we will host the best Commonwealth Games in history, with a lasting legacy that will benefit people across Scotland. With 174 days to go until the Opening Ceremony we are seeing tangible benefits from the Games that will grow over the coming months and years. Strong ties, partnerships and an early vision for the Games legacy have put us in a great position to enjoy the rewards from the Games for years to come.”

Ms Robison also confirmed to Parliament that the UK Government has agreed to Police Scotland’s request for a Military Venue Security Force for the Games.

Police Scotland, and the Organising Committee of G2014 Ltd, working closely with Scottish Government, have recognised that a mixed workforce involving police, military and private industry resources offers the most robust solution to ensuring a safe, secure and peaceful Games. This response clearly recognises the lessons of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Ms Robison said,

“Securing a safe and secure Commonwealth Games is a priority for all involved. I am pleased to announce that yesterday I had confirmation from the Home Secretary that Police Scotland’s request for assistance from our shared armed forces had been supported in full.

“It has been agreed with the UK Government costs of this resource will not be passed on to Police Scotland. We welcome this confirmation and it illustrates the cooperation between both governments to ensure the security of the Games.

“I have written to the Home Secretary thanking her for her support and requesting that consideration now be given to the Royal Regiment of Scotland helping to fulfil that military role.”

DCC Steve Allen, Security Director said

“Our Safety and Security programme is well advanced and learns from major events such as the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. We are working closely with partners to ensure that we deliver the most appropriate combination of personnel for these roles utilising police officers, private security guards, stewards and military personnel to cover all aspects of the security operation.

“Police Scotland will always have the lead role in delivering a safe and secure Commonwealth Games and we welcome the decision to provide military resource during the Commonwealth Games.”

David Grevemberg, Chief Executive, Glasgow 2014 said:

“We are working closely with Police Scotland, as the lead agency for the Glasgow 2014 safety and security operation, to ensure the most appropriate combination of personnel for delivery of Games security.

“We welcome confirmation of the involvement and support of the military and look forward to working positively and collaboratively with Police Scotland, the military and the private security industry to develop security solutions which will deliver a safe and secure Commonwealth Games.”