June 26, 2007
Metalworkers union giant is struck with horror at the latest revelations that Premier Soccer League (PSL) executives will rake up R30 million each after clinching broadcast rights deal with pay- television channel Supersport.
The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa(Numsa) which represents 220 000 workers is incensed and concerned that the four PSL executive members reportedly stand to benefit a share of R160 million including commissions for securing the agreement which will ensure that metalworkers were among millions of passionate soccer lovers dispossessed of their right to watch their favourite sport.
This saga has provoked, as a result many questions than answers.
The deal will give indeed the dedicated DSTV Pay Channel exclusive rights to PSL soccer matches. Soccer matches will be the sole preserve of the few rich people in the country who subscribe to private MNET screens, depriving millions of workers and poor communities.
As the five-year R1.6 billion contract continue to be the focal point of far-reaching arbitrations and court actions by the SABC, we justly remain in the dark why millions of workers in the country have to sacrifice their inalienable rights to access soccer matches on public broadcaster just to ensure that the few filthy rich individuals benefit a crock of gold at the end of their controversial deal.
Also of major concern is how the deal will benefit players and why the union which represent Cosatu members and soccer players in the PSL clubs was promised to be approached after the deal was done. Why not in the beginning of the TV rights talks and how the interests of the players are to be taken into consideration in future?
The PSL executive has proved its gusto by showing that money making is better than serving the interests of the majority workers in the country and the poor. Should the interests of the few rich allowed to supersede the interest of the majority poor nations?
For further information contact:
Mziwakhe Hlangani, Numsa national spokesperson
Cell phone: 082 9407116
E-mail : mziwakheh@numsa.org.za