OSAKA -- Opposition here to Osaka's bid to host the 2008 Olympics is gaining ground.
Representatives from the local government and activist organizations will hold a public symposium next month to discuss the potential financial, environmental and social problems involved, and to hear the concerns of local citizens. The symposium will be held Sept. 27 and is being organized under the direction of the Osaka branch of the Japan Scientists Association.
Those attending will include several academics, local government officials, members of the Osaka Prefecture New Japan Sports Federation, and environmental activists opposed to the development of Osaka Bay. While not all of the participating groups are officially opposed to an Osaka Olympics, their representatives were unanimous in saying that a number of major issues need to be discussed publicly before Osaka City Hall proceeds with its plans.