The Hindu : Sport : WADA urges stronger government backing

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Tuesday, Feb 06, 2007
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WADA urges stronger government backing

PARIS : The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) is counting on increased governmental backing, a revision of banned substances and more funding to fight the use of banned drugs in sport.

WADA vice chairman Jean-Francois Lamour, director general David Howman and UNESCO director-general Koichiro Matsuura spoke on Monday at the opening of a conference of countries which have signed up to an international convention against doping.

The conference will be asked to approve any changes to the 2007 list of prohibited substances. Mr. Matsuura called it "vital" that a banned list "is universally accepted, so athletes and support personnel are fully informed."

During the three-day conference, delegates will also elect a chairman and create a global monitoring fund to help eradicate doping.

Crucial role

Mr. Matsuura said governments around the world have a crucial role in providing a "much-needed framework to implement the world ant-doping code" and that uniform guidelines are needed "to ensure the seamless application of the convention."

Unanimously adopted by UNESCO's General Conference on Oct. 19, 2005, the anti-doping convention was ratified by member states and entered into force on Feb. 1.

Two-time Olympic fencing champion Lamour — also France's sports minister — hailed the progress made in 2006 but said it is "necessary not to give up" and to pool "resources and initiatives."

FIFA's support

FIFA's chief medical officer Jiri Dvorak, speaking on behalf of president Sepp Blatter, said football's governing body supports the fight against doping.

"Education and prevention has to start, not just at the high level, but at the grass roots, schools and villages," Mr. Dvorak said. "There is no place for cheating, or compensating for lack of skill by taking prohibited substances."

Dvorak said 25,000 doping controls were carried out in soccer last year, with the majority among the European leagues.

"We are looking forward to collaboration with WADA and also with governments," Dvorak said. — AP

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