The IOC has described as "alarming" delays in the building of a number of facilities for the Games in 2004.

The Government, which is responsible for the building of Olympic facilities, has agreed to provide "alternatives" in case some of the buildings cannot be completed in time.

IOC inspectors are due in Athens for another review on 21-23 November.

Greek Premier Costas Simitis has added six new deputy posts to his Cabinet to deal exclusively with the faltering Olympic preparations.

The government's newly appointed Olympic spokesman, Tilemahos Hitiris, said Greece will prepare a report for the IOC on the "construction capability of the country.

"If something can't be built... we can go ahead with alternate plans," Hitiris said.

Government officials have blamed many of the delays on complaints filed in the courts by residents opposed to the location of some sports venues and centers.

The first meeting of all 22 ministers involved in Olympic preparations was also attended by Gianna Angelopoulos-Daskalaki, the head of the Athens 2004 organising committee.

Angelopoulos-Daskalaki demanded alternative plans for the venues, Hitris said.