04/12/07

Robert Gillies is named Associated Press chief of bureau in Toronto

NEW YORK -- Robert Gillies, for nine years a news and sports writer for The Associated Press in Canada, has been appointed chief of bureau in Toronto, AP International Editor John Daniszewski announced April 12.

Gillies, a native of Toronto, graduated from Ryerson University with a degree in journalism. Since joining AP in 1998, he has covered a range of news, sports and business stories, including pieces touching on terrorism, police abuse and climate change.

He has also been a frequent AP contributor on major league baseball and professional basketball and hockey. He got his start at the AP while still in school, covering baseball games.

"Rob has shown passion, strength and versatility as a reporter. His enthusiasm, dedication and energy will benefit everyone who wants to know about Canada and the issues at work there," Daniszewski said.

He succeeds Beth Duff-Brown, who has been promoted to deputy Asia regional editor, based in Bangkok, Thailand.

Gillies said he looks forward to reporting on his country for readers in the United States and around the globe.

"Canada is one of the most multicultural countries in the world," he said. "Its universal health care, affordable post-secondary education, high taxes and acceptance of gay marriage also makes it one of the most liberal."

A Conservative government is currently in power and Ottawa has grown closer to the White House. With the two countries comprising the world's largest trading partnership, he said, political and business coverage will be key for international readers.

Gillies will lead the AP office in Toronto, and oversee AP stringers in Montreal and Vancouver. AP also cooperates closely with The Canadian Press, the nation's independent news agency, which distributes AP's international news in Canada.

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Contact: Jack Stokes, AP Corporate Communications, 212.621.1720