Critics Blast Coalition Avenir Québec's Plan to Bring NHL Pre-Season Games to Quebec City

The plan to pay up to $7 million to bring two NHL pre-season hockey games to Quebec City has sparked controversy and drawn criticism from opposition parties. Quebec finance minister, Eric Girard, stands by the plan, stating that it is part of a long process to increase the chances of Quebec City having an NHL team once again. In this article, we will delve into the details of the plan and the concerns raised by its critics.

Controversy Surrounding the Plan

Critics express concerns over the use of public funds and the timing of the announcement.

The announcement of the plan to bring NHL pre-season games to Quebec City has sparked controversy and drawn criticism from various quarters. One of the main concerns raised by critics is the use of public funds to finance the games. With the province facing fiscal challenges and public sector workers on strike, many question the decision to allocate up to $7 million for this purpose.

Furthermore, the timing of the announcement has also raised eyebrows. With schools shut down and a slowdown in health and social services due to the strike, some argue that the government's focus should be on resolving the labor dispute rather than organizing hockey games.

Finance Minister's Defense

Eric Girard stands by the plan, emphasizing its potential to bring back an NHL team to Quebec City.

Despite the criticism, Quebec's finance minister, Eric Girard, stands firm in his support of the plan. He argues that the pre-season games are part of a long process aimed at increasing the chances of Quebec City having an NHL team once again.

Girard acknowledges the negative reaction but emphasizes that bringing NHL games to Quebec City is an opportunity to showcase the city and attract the attention of the NHL. He believes that hosting high-quality pre-season games featuring teams like the Los Angeles Kings, Boston Bruins, and Florida Panthers will demonstrate the city's potential as a hockey market.

Critics' Concerns

Opposition parties and Quebec Solidaire question the use of public funds and call for the cancellation of the event.

Opposition parties, including Quebec Solidaire, have been vocal in their criticism of the government's plan. They argue that the use of public funds to subsidize the event is careless, given the province's current fiscal challenges and the ongoing labor dispute.

Québec Solidaire is expected to table a motion calling for the cancellation of the event, citing the need to prioritize essential services and address the concerns of public sector workers.

Government's Commitment

The government defends its decision, citing the importance of honoring contracts and the potential benefits for Quebec City.

The Quebec government remains committed to the plan and has defended its decision to honor the contracts signed with the organizers. Finance Minister Eric Girard emphasized the importance of governments honoring their commitments and stated that canceling the event would not be in line with this principle.

The government also highlights the potential benefits for Quebec City, including the opportunity to showcase the city as a potential NHL market and the economic impact of hosting high-profile pre-season games.