Finance Minister Eric Girard confirmed on Wednesday his interest in hosting matches of National Hockey League (NHL) teams in Quebec City pending a possible return of the Nordiques.
Mr. Girard discussed this hypothesis in January when he met virtually with the commissioner of the NHL, Gary Bettman.
“Yes, there has been interest expressed on both sides, but at this stage it is preliminary,” he said during a press briefing.
Mr. Girard declined to comment on a report by The Presspublished Wednesday, indicating that the government could be asked to finance the fees demanded by the Ottawa Senators team, in return for their commitment to play five games in Quebec during the next season.
“As for the rumors that have been conveyed this morning, I cannot comment on these rumours, there is nothing concrete,” he said.
Mr. Girard paid tribute on Wednesday to Senators owner Eugene Melnyk, whose death was announced on Monday.
“The most important thing to do, I would like to express my deepest condolences to the Melnyk family, to the Senators, to the fans of the Senators,” he said. Mr. Melnyk saved the Senators in 2003 so I think we should recognize that and pay tribute to him. »
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