Following is reaction to the Canadian Federal
Government's financial aid package:
THE GOOD: In Ottawa, Lisa Burke writes that NHL
Commissioner Gary Bettman said, "The NHL remains committed
to maintaining its strong presence in Canada and we will
continue to work with our clubs and the government at all
levels as this process continues." NHLPA Exec Dir Bob
Goodenow, on the plan: "[It's] a positive step in
establishing a framework to assist Canadian franchises in
dealing with Canadian currency and taxation issues that
affect" Canada's NHL teams (OTTAWA SUN, 1/19). In Ottawa,
Bruce Garrioch writes that Bryden is "being hailed as a
saviour." Senators coach Jacques Martin, on Bryden: "I
think he should be seen as the man who saved hockey in
Canada" (OTTAWA SUN, 1/19). In Edmonton, Terry Jones writes
that Oilers Chair Jim Hole said he was "excited and
encouraged" (EDMONTON SUN, 1/19).
THE BAD: In Toronto, Mark MacKinnon writes, "Outside
Ottawa, reaction to the aid package was swift and almost
wholly negative." Newfoundland Premier Brian Tobin said
that if Ottawa "has the time and money to deal with
professional hockey, 'then our farmers and our health care
must now be safe'" (Toronto GLOBE & MAIL, 1/19). Alberta
Treasurer Stockwell Day: "It's a bad thing the federal
government is coming out and saying they'll put a tax
subsidy towards sports teams. They're saying they'll do it
if everyone else does. That's extortion" (EDMONTON SUN,
1/19). In Toronto, Damien Cox: "Forget the Flames, Oilers,
Canucks, Maple Leafs and Canadiens. This was always just
about the Senators. And it was never a long-term solution"
(TORONTO STAR, 1/19). CFL President Jeff Giles, noting his
league "lost about" C$7M last season, said of the
government's plan: "Our position has been consistent: we're
not in support of government funding for professional sport.
That's not the government's role" (GLOBE & MAIL, 1/19). The
NATIONAL POST's Cam Cole: "Repeat after me: We must not
spend one tax dollar on sports as long as there are hospital
wards closed, teachers overworked, homeless people freezing
and old-age pensions drying up" (NATIONAL POST, 1/19).
THE UGLY: In Ottawa, Chris Stevenson: "Let's not kid
ourselves. [Federal Industry Minister John] Manley's plan
doesn't save the NHL in Canada, not by a long shot" (OTTAWA
SUN, 1/19). National Citizens Coalition President Stephen
Harper, on the plan: "Ridiculous. Outrageous. There is no
support anywhere for this" (TORONTO STAR, 1/19). A TORONTO
STAR editorial: "Where was Ottawa when the Toronto Symphony
needed money? And where is the cheque for the ailing CBC?
No, this isn't about culture, nor is it about saving jobs"
(TORONTO STAR, 1/19). In Montreal, Jack Todd writes under
the header, "Handout Scant Help For Habs": "Chump change is
a generous way to describe it" (Montreal GAZETTE, 1/19).
