“Lessons have been learned” from the Kings saga and millions of dollars invested in two preparatory games presented in Quebec in the fall of 2024, admitted minister Jonatan Julien, who says his government will not renew the experience.
“I am not sure that it would be advised to reproduce what happened,” said the Minister responsible for the Capitale-Nationale during the study of budgetary credits concerning the region.
The CAQ government had injected $ 5 to 7 million into these events, in the context of budgetary restrictions, which had created an uproar.
The final amount invested is “confidential” for the moment, has slipped Mr. Julien. “When the amount is final and agreed, it will be disclosed.”
“Good intentions”
He claims that everything was “supported by good intentions”. But he says he heard the reactions in the population, which he said found that subsidies were not “the right tool”.
“We saw the reaction and what it led to discussions. […] We take note of it. “
The minister is still targeting the attraction of major events, such as the world hockey championship or women’s league games.
He believes that it is necessary to assert the quality of the Videotron Center, and he does not give up: there is “appetite” for these events.
“We must continue to promote the infrastructure we have.”
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