OPINION

Awaiting ‘development’

With the Olympic Games upon us, and the particular demands of this mammoth undertaking, it is no surprise that the prime minister has asked his government cadres to be on standby night and day. Over the next few weeks, the country will grab the attention of the world’s sport community and media commentators – who are always ready to criticize any flaws or organizational failures. Nevertheless, the government should brace for the post-Olympic period and take action to protect the fixed and mobile assets that were created to serve the requirements of the Summer Games. The issue should be addressed with no delay on the basis of a thorough government plan, that will leave no room for the profitable «development» of assets that are owned by the State by various clever well-connected individuals – a species Greeks know of very well. This public property – which is worth hundreds of millions of euros – has roused the imagination of various circles near the government and drawn the interest of various state and private officials. The government of Costas Karamanlis should therefore hammer out a plan to avert any ideas or actions on the part of those who envisage looting, feasting and exploiting the property – whether land, building, or high-tech equipment. The entangled interests – always thirsty for quick and easy profit – are still here. And the huge property that was created to cover the needs of the Olympic Games has whetted the appetites of those clever souls. Unless the government settles the issue in due time, and in a manner that will discourage these circles, the only thing we can expect in the near future is one more party in the honor of the Olympic Spirit.

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