Time is your enemy: Fennell tells CWG organisers

New Delhi, Oct 13: The Commonwealth Games Federation decided to form an independent panel to monitor the preparations for the 2010 edition of the Commonwealth Games in New Delhi.

Addressing a press conference here on Monday, Oct 12, Michael Fennell, president of the federation said, "I have no doubt that the 2010 games can still be great games, provided all corrective measures are taken and there is no further slippage."

"Two years before the games, I had told the OC (organising committee) that time was not your friend and now one year before it, I say time is your enemy. But together, we can defeat it," he said.

The Commonwealth Coordination Commission would also maintain its monitoring, he said. "The Commission will continue its visit and they would come next on Dec 14 to address all key areas and all operational areas."

He also said, "A great deal has been discussed and achieved. Despite lagging behind, we feel the venues would be ready in 2010 well before testing events. That remains a top priority because venues cannot afford anymore slippage and it should be ensured that the new deadlines are met."

"We fully acknowledge the strong commitment of the Indian and Delhi government to complete the venues and Games Village on time and with due diligence, this can be done," he said.

OneIndia News