Ministry of Public Order
Press Office

Athens, Nov. 21, 2002

Press Release

The Olympic Games Security Division will hold a readiness exercise, code-named “Rainbow 2002”, in Athens between Nov. 22 and 24.

Some 1,800 personnel from all relevant agencies and services will participate under a joint command.

This actual exercise involves the management of major incidents, and in particular, dealing with an air hijacking on the ground and bomb threats to floating hotels (cruiseships).

The main areas where the exercise will be held are the Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport at Spata (Athens) and the Port of Piraeus.

The purpose of the exercise is to test current operational plans and the level of response and inter-branch cooperation and coordination of all relevant bodies and services regarding such incidents through the creation of a “virtual” environment of simulated incidents. Conclusions from the exercise will be used to improve operational plans for the Olympic Games Security Program.
The exercise`s methodology, with certain adaptations to Greek reality, is based on the British model for exercises, and will be aided by British experts within the framework of cooperation between the Ministry of Public Order and the Olympic Advisory Group.

Citizens` daily routines will in no way be affected.

Symbolism

The multi-colored spectrum of the rainbow symbolizes the cooperation and coordinated actions of primary services and the other relevant agencies involved in Olympic security that deal with major incidents.
It also symbolizes the return of a peaceful and safe environment with the effective actions of security forces, just as the rainbow`s appearance symbolizes the end of inclement weather.