World Cup Netball Final But Where’s Free Live Broadcast?
World Cup Netball Final But Where’s Free Live Broadcast on State TV?
Broadcasting Minister Amy Adams is in Sydney where the Silver Ferns play Australia in the World Cup final later today.
“No doubt the Minister has a seat for the game, but how are most New Zealanders going to watch free coverage of the world’s two top teams in their homes, as it happens,” says New Zealand First Spokesperson on Sport and Recreation Clayton Mitchell. “Not everyone can afford pay TV.”
“The Minister belatedly came out this week, after New Zealand First questioned her in Parliament, to say the Rugby World Cup quarters, semis and final will be live on Prime. We were, of course, pleased to see the Minister saw common sense in our policy.
“But why is that not happening for the Silver Ferns?
“Where’s the fairness? Why are fans of our top women’s sport treated in an inferior way?
“Both the Broadcasting Minister, and the Minister for Women, Louise Upston, who is also in Sydney with the parliamentary netball team, should explain.
“To be fair to all New Zealanders, New Zealand First is calling for live broadcasts of all big sporting events on our own taxpayer-funded television.
“A one-off government deal, after New Zealand First raises the issue, is just not enough when both Australia and Britain guarantee free live coverage for a list of important events. Kiwis deserve that too,” says Mr Mitchell.
ENDS