Soccer
'R1 million a month not true'
2010-07-26 07:52
Kirsten Nematandani (Gallo)
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Johannesburg - The Department of Public Works has denied that it is demanding R1 million a month for the rent of the South African Football Association's headquarters.
According to media reports, a letter outlining the above was sent by the Public Works to SAFA, with the rumours given credence after SAFA president Kirsten Nematandani admitted to receiving the correspondence.
The government body owns the site where the premises were built at a cost of R86 million.
Nematandani told
The Dispatch: "I know about the communication between us and the Department of Public Works.
"This issue is receiving our attention and we are talking at the highest level."
But deputy director-general of corporate services Lucky Mochalibane has denied the claims.
"The Department of Public Works wishes to confirm that the land on which SAFA offices are built belongs to the State, of which the Department of Public Works is a custodian.
"The department notes with dismay persistent media allegations that the department has issued a letter to SAFA demanding R1 million in rent.
"This is simply incorrect.
"On the contrary, the department will be evaluating the property and only after that will we then determine fair market value of the property.
"Subsequently, the department will then enter into an agreement with SAFA to consider two options: long-term lease or outright purchase of the property by SAFA."