I have been advised by SABC as follows:
- Yes, the Freelance Contract for Performers of 27 August 1997 between the SABC and actors is indeed the final, legal and binding contract.
- No, production companies are not altering contracts at will, however, should any alterations be required those will be effected after agreement between the SABC and affected company.
- No alternations may be made without the SABC’s consent. The SABC issues the performers’ agreement and advises specifically that clauses 5 and 7 cannot be altered without prior approval of the SABC. [Clause 5 and 7 are attached]
- The payment of actors is prescribed in clause 7 of the Agreement in question. The SABC is merely adhering to the percentages set out in the agreement.
- There is no new agreement in place and the SABC is complying with the stipulated payment of 2%. The SABC can enter into new negotiations but it would have to be with all representatives in the Industry and not only with SAGA.
Ms. Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams, MP
Minister