Federations raise concerns over FSC facility rate increase

The move by the Fiji Sports Council to increase facility rates has not gone down well with all National Federations (NF).

The FSC led by chief executive officer Ratu Gilbert Vakalalabure briefed NF executives on Monday of their intention and this was strongly objected by them.

Speaking to SUNsports yesterday, Basketball Fiji chief operating officer William Peter said all sporting bodies would face major challenges if FSC raises its facility rates.

“From a federation standpoint and I think this was shared by all the national sporting organisations that were present,” he told SUNsports.

“It’s going to be very difficult for us to use the facilities if there is a rate increase. Right now, as it is, we are already struggling.”

Peter said he understands that the Councils also have overhead costs they need to cover but believes there should be discussions to reach a reasonable outcome that benefits everyone.

“As it is, it’s already hard for us to book facilities when they’re available.

“It’s going to be even harder if they’re available and the price is much higher. We are looking forward to the review,” he said.

“From that consultation, sporting organisations were to be given an opportunity to review the document and provide feedback on the proposed rate increase.”

Peter said his understanding is that another consultation meeting would be held on Friday to discuss the final outcome.

He noted that like other sporting organisations that use FSC facilities, it would be very difficult if the increase goes ahead.

Peter also compared last year’s facility fees with the proposed changes, noting a significant difference.

“I know there has been a steady increase in the past.

“There was a slight decrease because of the reduction in VAT earlier last year. But comparing the proposed changes, it will be much more difficult for most sporting organisations, including ours, to hire facilities even just for our programmes,” he said.

He added that for club training, basketball clubs wanting to train will definitely find it more challenging to secure venues.