One-handed clap for Government over RWC deal

The final deal on free-to-air television coverage of the Rugby World Cup concludes a messy process, but upholds an important principle, says Labour Broadcasting spokesperson Brendon Burns.

Acting Rugby World Cup Minister Gerry Brownlee has confirmed the Government will spend $3.2m to provide free-to-air coverage, allowing Maori Television to be the lead broadcaster covering all 48 games, but TVNZ and TV3 will also broadcast two of the quarter finals, the semis and final game.

Brendon Burns says the deal has taken months longer to conclude than indicated by Prime Minister John Key when he overturned Maori Television’s original bid for free-to-air rights.

“That act was entirely political. Mr Key simply did not want Maori Television covering the Rugby World Cup, especially using some Maori language commentary, in the weeks before the next scheduled election.

“His pretence for intervention was that Maori Television’s 90 percent coverage was not sufficient.”

“I am pleased, however, that the Government is upholding the rights of all New Zealanders to see a major iconic event like the Rugby World Cup,” Brendon Burns said.

“Regrettably this year’s Commonwealth Games and the next Olympics do not pose the same election year risks for the Government, so this is a one-off exercise in expediency.

“Government largesse similarly doesn’t extend to ensuring Radio New Zealand is sufficiently funded to cover the Commonwealth Games.

“The Government’s clumsy intervention deserves no more than a one-handed clap."

ENDS

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