NEWS RELEASE
For Immediate Release 2008OTP0200-001187 Aug. 12, 2008	Office of the Premier
PREMIER UNVEILS MEDIA CENTRE FOR 2010 GAMES

BEIJING – Premier Gordon Campbell today revealed plans for the 2010 International Media Centre (IMC). It is anticipated that over 3,000 of the reporters and writers who visit British Columbia in conjunction with the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games are more likely focus on the B.C. communities, culture and businesses that will form the backdrop to the athletic competitions.

 

            “Located in Robson Square, the centre will serve a diverse group of media representatives, in particular those who are not accredited by the International Olympic Committee. These media work for broadcast, print and web outlets in all corners of the globe,” said Premier Campbell. “There’s no better way to promote all our province has to offer than through the eyes of journalists drawn here by the Games.”

 

            The 2,600-square-metre facility will offer the latest in communications technology in a comfortable and secure workspace featuring locally sourced materials. With carbon-neutral emissions and a zero carbon footprint, it will be the first-ever “green-certified” international media centre in the Games’ history.

 

            The state-of-the-art facility is designed to be a one-stop-shop of resources for the world’s media community. The 2010 IMC will co-ordinate technology, information, transportation and hospitality, as well as access to officials and athletes for members of the press corps. Additionally, the 2010 IMC will also be a broadcast hub for a number of key domestic and international broadcast organizations.

           

The media centre will be adjacent to the Commerce Centre and showcase space in Robson Square. The complex at Robson Square is part of the Province’s strategy to promote B.C. as a trade, investment and tourism destination during the Games.

 

            The cost of the IMC is estimated to be approximately $2.5 million, and is part of the Olympic Games Secretariat’s budget. Some of the costs of the IMC will be covered through sponsorships and through partnerships with suppliers.

 

            Members of the domestic and international press corps are encouraged to apply for accreditation at the 2010 International Media Centre immediately at: www.2010internationalmediacentre.ca.

 

            The International Media Centre will begin operations Jan. 28, 2010 and remain open until Feb. 28, 2010.

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Media contact:	Doug Brown Senior Communications Co-ordinator Office of the Premier 250 387-1398
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