Sports

Steward Strike Spreads at World Cup
by Magdalena Rosova

On Thursday South African policed had to take responsibility over security at four World Cup stadiums in Durban, Cape Town, Port Elizabeth and Johannesburg as striking stewards refused to do their work. South Africa's government ensured the fans their safety would not be affected. But it is a big shame and failure for the organizers. About 1,000 policemen were in during one of the most eagerly awaited matches of the first round between Brazil, five-times world champion, and North Korea that took place in Johannesburg's Ellis Park stadium. Few hours before the match hundreds of staff walked out of the stadium. On Monday night staff in Cape Town stadium were protesting agains! t their salary. Similar protest took place on Sunday in Durban were protesters clashed with police. The protest is a huge embarrassment for organizers, who also had difficulty with transport for approximately 1,000 fans who were stuck in Johannesburg because bus drivers joined the strike. The organizers promised to convene a meeting with stewards and the security company to find a solution good for both sides. The security workers refused to negotiate, saying that they were cheated. Initially, they were told they will receive 180 rands (about 17 euros) a day, but they got only 120 rands. The workers are angry and complain that the money was not enough to feed their families. AFP refused to comment the incidents saying that it was problem of organizing committee. Spokesman of South African government, Themba Maseko, said the strikes would not affect security of football fans, the police and other security agencies were ready to deal with the situation.

related story (sgx17594): http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=660956&cc=5739...

by Magdalena Rosova for Cantell TV (http://cantell.tv)

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posted by Blog TechSource @ 2:34 PM