8 Sep 2015

Tonga broadcaster angered by Rugby World Cup claim

10:38 am on 8 September 2015

The state broadcaster in Tonga, the Tonga Broadcasting Commission, is angry at claims in Parliament that it does not have to pay broadcast rights for events like the Rugby World Cup.

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Photo: World Rugby / Colin Watson

The claims were made by MP, Mateni Tapueluelu.

The TBC's general manager, Nanise Fifita, says the claims are damaging because the broadcaster is trying to raise money around the country to make the payments.

Ms Fifita says the government cannot meet all the costs and the TBC is approaching businesses and the general public to help find thousands of pa'anga.

"We have to try and engage the businesses, interested parties, as well as the communities, because the people in Tonga, throughout Tonga, are very supportive. They want to watch whatever rugby, international that are being played throughout the year."

Efforts to obtain a response from Mr Tapueluelu have been unsuccessful.