Shake-up

Report claims Athens organizers could face ax

ATHENS, Greece (AP) -- Chief 2004 organizer Gianna Angelopoulos-Daskalaki has warned senior employees of a shake-up of company positions by the end of the year, a newspaper report said Wednesday.

The Athens daily Kathimerini said Angelopoulos-Daskalaki told 2004 directors during a routine meeting Tuesday to stay within their budget, reduce red tape, and work harder next year.

Eighteen Olympic test events are planned for 2003.

The report comes as the International Olympic Committee is shifting its attention from venue construction to operational issues under control of the 2004 organizers, such as ticketing and transport logistics.

The newspaper said Angelopoulos-Daskalaki argued that management changes are needed because the organizing company has grown too large, hindering communication between departments.

Seraphim Kotrotsos, a spokesman for the 2004 organizers, did not confirm the report. But he added: "Any changes in positions or organization that are essential to improve efficiency will be made."

 

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