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21 November 2008

Marthinus van Schalkwyk, Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, yesterday convened a meeting of tourism stakeholders to discuss accommodation for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

The minister said the various parties involved held a constructive and engaging meeting. The parties included the 2010 FIFA World Cup Organising Committee, MATCH, SA Tourism, the Tourism Business Council, the Hotel Industry and the Tourism Grading Council.

The meeting recognised the central role of accommodation, and the tourism industry in general, in delivering a world cup event that will leave an enduring legacy for tourism in our country. He once again reiterated the fact that South Africa has enough accommodation available for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

"MATCH has a requirement of 55 000 graded rooms for the FIFA delegation and affiliates. The requirement to be contracted by MATCH is made up as follows 10 000 non-hotel rooms and 45 000 hotel rooms. The tourism industry has a very good working relationship with FIFA and MATCH. We remain committed as partners to assist MATCH in achieving their target and we will continue to encourage players in the industry to sign up their facilities."

"MATCH continues to play a central role in achieving a successful hosting of the FIFA 2010 World Cup. Our working relationship is one of mutual respect and partnership and I would like to encourage all role players to ensure that nothing detracts from this", the Minister said.

It is envisaged that a broader advisory structure, inclusive of SA Tourism, will be established to advice on accommodation and related matters for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

Issued by: Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism
21 November 2008
Source: Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism (http://www.deat.gov.za)