The Liberal Party of Canada today reiterated its position on the Quebec City arena project:
“The caucus and candidates of the Liberal Party of Canada would obviously be thrilled, as would all Quebecers, to see the Nordiques return to Quebec City. We are pleased to see progress on this issue. Nonetheless, it is not the place of the federal government to give financial aid to professional hockey.
“The Liberal Party would be prepared to consider federal financial support for the Quebec City arena project if certain essential conditions were met. The project must have substantial and clear support from the private sector and be based on a fully-costed business plan. The arena must be multifunctional, promote cultural outreach in the Quebec City region and therefore cannot be an arena exclusively reserved for professional sports. Additionally, any federal government participation must be within the framework of a national strategic plan in order to ensure that all regions of the country are treated equitably.
“After more than six months, Stephen Harper’s government maintains an unacceptable and deliberate ambivalence regarding this project. From one day to the next, Conservative MPs and ministers blow hot and cold with regards to possible federal financial participation. This is not a responsible approach for the residents of Quebec City. The Liberal Party asks the government to clearly state its position on this project once and for all.”
