The Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu) has labelled the failure of the broadcast of a rugby match between the Springboks and All Blacks on the public broadcaster as a damning reflection of the Government of Nation Unity (GNU).
The highly anticipated game between the Springboks and New Zealand’s All Blacks will take place on September 7, at DHL Stadium in Cape Town.
Rugby fans will be heading to the stadium to watch the two teams clash against the Castle Lager Rugby Championship, but some fans won't be able to go to the stadium or even watch the broadcast of the match.
Cosatu, has expressed a deep concern over the failure of the GNU to intervene in the matter and the match to be aired on the public broadcaster.
Malvern De Bruyn, the union’s spokesperson in the Western Cape described that as a tragic day for working class families and a damning reflection of GNU.
“This represents a failure of public policy to respond to public priority issues that foster national unity.”
De Bruyn criticised Sports minister Gayton McKenzie and labelling last Saturday’s match a gimmick, citing it as a real begging bowl approach to those who benefit and control South African sports.
“We are aware that it costs money but can confirm that it was done before. The ministry does not appear to be able to deal with the complexities of the Competition Commission ruling that led to the match not being shown.”
De Bruyn demanded the match be aired live on the public broadcaster and at least be flighted 30 minutes later, arguing that this would not cost any money or undermine Super Sport’s rights.
“Cosatu is willing to assist in getting the previous arrangement where matches were shown at least 30 minutes after the game.”
He said that with the match not being broadcast, it would be a sad day for other rugby fans and working class families, who cannot afford to pay DStv.
“It again shows that greed for money is put ahead of the interest of all South Africans and that politicians regardless of party bow at the altar of greed.”
De Bruyn said if the GNU truly represents the future of all South Africans, it must ensure that everyone benefits from it.
The union has called on Ramaphosa to urgently intervene in this “crisis” to ensure that all the games that the Springboks will be playing are broadcast live on SABC.
“Furthermore, we call on the (sports) minister (McKenzie ) to bring together the various role players and ensure that the crisis in sport is resolved and the games broadcast,” De Bruyn said.
IOL Politics