Rolling in the money

"It is questionable whether profit generating professional sports should receive government or public monies" - Ministerial Taskforce on Sport, Fitness & Leisure (2001), p.59

"Significant income increases have occured in major professional sports without critical evaluation as to whether the continued allocation of grants by central agencies to these sports is an appropriate use of public funds" - Ibid, p.60

"The Taskforce does not support provision of public funds for recreation and sport to professional codes" - Ibid, p.78

So upon hearing the news that the New Zealand Rugby Union (Inc.) generated a record profit of $23.7 million dollars, it was time to dust off SPARC's latest annual report, and well, whaddya know, government funding of rugby through SPARC increased from $22,500 in 2003/4 to $682,500 in 2004/5.

From one Head Honcho to another - congratulations Jock, I'm really happy rugby had such a successful year in 2005, I really am. But here's a thought: that $682,500 you bludged off the taxpayer, how about paying it back because YOU DON'T FUCKING NEED IT.