Olympic Torch Relay - the true story ! Olympic Torch Relay - the true story !

The ATHENS 2004 Press & Media Department wishes to issue the following rejoinder to certain articles in the International Press about the Olympic Torch Relay in Australia:

'As part of its organisation of the Olympic Torch Relay, ATHENS 2004 has signed contracts with the cities and the National Olympic Committees of the countries that will host the Relay, defining those cities' rights and responsibilities. Under the terms of these contracts security for the Torch Relay is undertaken by local authorities, while ATHENS 2004 and its staff support only the organisational side of the Relay, a joint undertaking the aim of which is that the Olympic Torch Relay shall have a uniform image and method of operation in every city of the world.

There was no proposal or request that there should be Greek security guards, with or without weapons, in Australia or at any other point of the international route for the Olympic Torch Relay; because - and we insist on this - security is the responsibility of the local authorities.

All articles in the International Press about the organisation and security of the Olympic Torch Relay in Australia are thus baseless and without foundation, while certain statements made on the subject run counter to the spirit of amity and solidarity by which the Olympic Torch Relay is governed'.

May 04, 2004 - ATHOC
Athens Olympics: ATHENS 2004 STATEMENT ON THE OLYMPIC TORCH RELAY

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Australian's have been misled.

There were no corrections or follow-up stories in any Australian News services, leading us to believe Athens had backed down.

What an embarrassment for Australia.

Mel

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