FBC Spends $33K to Feature Second Test live on its Channels
Decided to spend the money because it would ensure that people stayed at home and did not move around, says FBC chief executive
SHALVEEN CHAND SUVA
The Fijian Broadcasting Corporation has spent $33,000 for 80-minutes of rugby to ensure Fijians are able to watch the second Test between the Flying
Fijians and the All Blacks at home.
FBC chief executive officer Riyaz Sayed-Khaiyum said they had decided to spend the money because it would ensure that people stayed at home and did not move around.
He said FBC had tried to get both games from Digicel Pacific, which have the broadcasting rights, but the price was too much and not conducive in the current business climate.
“However, after the first game, we realised that because the game was not on free to air and many Fijians did not have Sky
PACIfiC in their homes and they were congregating in homes which had Sky,” Mr Sayed-Khaiyum said.
“So for the second game, we decided that we would pay the $33,000 to ensure that people do not move around. We definitely do not need people to move around now, especially with COVID-19 spreading like wildfire.
“We have some sponsors and we still are looking for sponsors, but for the greater good of all Fijians we have decided to bear the cost even if it comes to us as a loss.”
Mr Sayed-Khaiyum said people had also questioned why FBC broadcasted the Euro 2020 Championships. He said this was a deal made two years ago and a contractual agreement they could not wriggle out of.
Mr Sayed-Khaiyum also confirmed that FBC will not be broadcasting the Olympic Games which includes sevens rugby because the price for the monthlong-event could not be offset in this current economic climate.
He thanked Digicel Pacific for facilitating the live feed for the second Test match.