Govt can't seriously claim credit for NZ Idol
"Broadcasting Minister Steve Maharey must have lost his marbles if he thinks the Government can seriously claim any of
the credit for the successful New Zealand Idol series," says National's Georgina te Heuheu.
She's commenting on a statement from Mr Maharey who says 'while it was just a portion of the total cost, public funding
through NZ on Air to Television New Zealand ensured the series got off the ground'.
He goes on to suggest that 'the Government's promotion of cultural and social objectives through mechanisms like ...
TVNZ's new public service mandate is paying off'.
"What rubbish. TVNZ has a long way to go before it is seen as delivering on the promises contained in the charter," says
Mrs te Heuheu.
"I'm sure Mr Maharey does not need to be reminded that NZ on Air was established BEFORE the Labour-sponsored charter.
"As Mr Maharey acknowledges, the public funding through NZ on Air to Television New Zealand was only a portion of the
total production costs.
"This is a spin-off from a formula that's been used overseas. Despite its uniquely New Zealand flavour it could just as
easily have been made for TV3.
"It's utter nonsense and blatant political opportunism for this Government to claim any credit for the success of the
series," says Mrs te Heuheu.