New Zealand Olympic Committee President Mike Stanley and Secretary General Barry Maister have briefed the New Zealand Olympic Committee board today on progress in Delhi following their 27 hour trip to the Indian capital. While it has been a tense few days the board heard today that progress in the last 24 hours has been significant.
The government in India has acknowledged the issues and this is significant progress. The Chief Minister of Delhi has brought in 40 of her top administrators to make things happen. In addition, New Zealand athletes are now due to arrive two days later than originally scheduled, buying invaluable additional time.
We remain hopeful that things can be turned around, said Mike Stanley after the board meeting. What we found was inexcusable and unacceptable but weve seen a change in leadership and this is positive. Working with sports to delay the arrivals of the first athletes has also been the right decision and we appreciate everyones flexibility. With news of recent progress and affirmations from sport to continue to push for improvements, the New Zealand Olympic Committee board has agreed that teams will continue to plan for arrivals commencing on 28 September.
There remain some concerns around the environment in Delhi that include the as yet untested transport system and satisfaction around health and hygiene in the village. The situation will be continue to be reviewed on a daily basis.
The efforts of the New Zealand team in Delhi have had a positive impact on the issues being currently addressed. While there remains a lot of work to be done within the residential areas of the village, New Zealands two towers are progressing well. Some areas of the village are very good including dining hall, food quality, the international zone and athletes training and recreation areas.
Mike Stanley says the New Zealand Olympic Committee is committed to providing leadership for athletes. The board also agreed that athletes will be advised to stay within the security bubble during the games unless the situation changes. The situation will continue to be monitored closely by the team on the ground in Delhi. The board reconfirmed its commitment to the health and safety of athletes and reassures sports and athletes that everything is being done to provide the best possible environment in Delhi.
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