Glasgow 2014 was referred to as the "best Games ever" on a number of occasions during the course of the two weeks, including by Commonwealth Games Federation President Prince Imran in his Closing Ceremony speech.

With respect to this, the Scottish Parliament was today given the opportunity to reflect and pay tribute to all of those involved in the smooth running of the Games and the success of both Scottish and Home Nation athletes.

"The Commonwealth Games have been a huge credit to Glasgow and to Scotland and it is right for Parliament to pause and take a moment to reflect on the greatest ever Games," said Robison.

"Every competitor and spectator, from the nearest or furthest reaches of the Commonwealth, experienced the warm welcome and support of the people of Scotland.

"No Games could happen without a vast amount of hard work from an incredible range of people.

"Much of the painstaking preparation was undertaken by the Organising Committee.

"From the incredibly visible aspects of the memorable Ceremonies, to the unseen minutiae of sorting out volunteer shift rosters, the Organising Committee has worked tirelessly to ensure every aspect of the Games ran smoothly.

"Glasgow City Council, as host city, has been a crucial partner throughout the seven years of preparation as well as the 11 days of sporting competition.

"The passion, professionalism and perseverance of the whole team at Glasgow City Council cannot be overstated, while Angus, Dundee, Edinburgh, North Lanarkshire, South Lanarkshire and East Dunbartonshire councils did a sterling job to ensure that the experience of athletes and spectators matched that of the host city itself."

Team Scotland recorded its best ever medal haul at Glasgow 2014, securing 53 medals in total ©Getty Images



Team Scotland finished fourth on the medals table at Glasgow 2014, smashing their previous best medal tally of 33 set at Edinburgh 1986, the last time the nation hosted the Games.

Overall, Scotland claimed nine gold, 15 silver and 19 bronze medals to total 53, more than double the 26 won in Delhi four years ago.

Speaking in Parliament today, Robison added: "Commonwealth Games Scotland has played an important, often unseen role, in supporting the delivery of the Games, not least in preparing a Team Scotland that smashed previous medal totals, national records and personal bests.

"The Team's success also owes a great deal to the work of sportscotland and their world class sporting system model.

"I am particularly grateful for the fantastic job that Police Scotland, the armed forces and all the emergency services played in delivering a safe, secure Games, characterised by friendly, attentive and patient staff.

"I would also like to pay a special thanks to the people of Dalmarnock who [have] been patient and understanding and I am confident that the long-term benefits to the area will be substantial.

"Of course, the real heroes of the Games were those who gave up their holidays or took time off work so that they could volunteer to make the Games a success.

"What really struck me from meeting the Clyde-siders and Host City Volunteers was their unstoppable enthusiasm.

"Through hard work, grit and good humour, we have proven that when we are handed such a great responsibility, Scotland delivers - and delivers in style."

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