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Over the past couple of weeks on the Marngrook Footy Show, the hosts have been discussing the funding issues around National Indigenous Television (NITV) and the Federal Government.
Apparently, come 30 June 2010, the whole network could disappear, along with hundreds of jobs for indigenous Australians and great TV shows like the Marngrook Footy Show and the Barefooty Rugby League show.
The decision to continue funding NITV rests with the Honourable Minister, Mr Peter Garrett.
On last week’s MFS, the CEO of NITV Patricia Turner diplomatically explained the current state of affairs where NITV is still waiting a yes or no on funding.
What is surprising to me is that funding for NITV is still so uncertain, with only three months to go. It appears an appallingly bad way to treat NITV, and indigenous Australians in general.
For those who haven’t caught either of the footy shows, which are on Foxtel or Channel 31, they are terrific grassroots shows that talk about football and stay clear of the jokes and skits found on the commercial network shows.
They are refreshing shows with a strong indigenous flavour, but not a hint of reverse racism or baggage from the past. It’s a celebration of footy and a brilliant link between indigenous and non indigenous Australians via sport.
So Minister Garrett, you have my support to spend my taxes on maintaining the funding for NITV along the same lines as the ABC and SBS.
If you’re a fan of the Marngrook Footy Show or the Barefoot Rugby League show, write to the honourable Minister and express your support: friends@nitv.org.au
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