IFP appalled at comments by Australian public officials

MEDIA STATEMENT ISSUED BY:
MR ERIC LUCAS MP
IFP SPOKESPERSON FOR SPORT & RECREATION

November 24, 2006

The IFP spokesperson for Sport & Recreation, Mr Eric Lucas, today said:

"The IFP is appalled at the comments made by Australian public officials regarding South Africa's readiness to host the 2010 World Cup tournament - especially in light of FIFA's approval of our progress made thus far. We agree with the South African Department of Foreign Affairs that such comments are 'totally unacceptable'."

Further Eric said: "There are many pessimists out there who continue to predict that South Africa will fail, but we challenge them, as well as the rest of South Africa, to focus on the positive and to work together to stage a truly remarkable South African, and African event."

Eric concluded by saying: "South Africa, or Africa, might not be as financially rich as previous host nations, but what Australia and other pessimists tend to forget is the strength and character of the South African people. It is this very strength and character that changed the political landscape of our country forever, and with the same determination, there should be no doubt that South Africa will host one of the best Soccer World Cup tournaments."



FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Mr Eric Lucas MP: 082 557 2481
Noleen Hendricks: 082 886 9848