Members of the National Assembly question government on L.A. Kings deal

The Quebec government has made it clear that they will not be footing the bill for meals or alcohol for the Los Angeles Kings players during their upcoming preseason games in Quebec City. This decision was confirmed by Opposition Leader Marc Tanguay during a National Assembly committee study of budgetary appropriations of the Treasury Board.

Tanguay raised concerns about potential reimbursement for alcohol expenses and questioned whether Quebecers would be covering these costs. Youri Rousseau, the associate secretary for the Secrétariat à la Capitale-Nationale, clarified that the agreement does not include reimbursement for players’ personal expenses, including meals and alcohol.

The Quebecor’s Sports and Entertainment Group has already received $2.5 million from the government, with another $2.5 million to be paid 30 days before the event. Additionally, the government has committed to paying up to an additional $2 million if Quebecor incurs losses after the event.

The decision to subsidize the event has sparked controversy, especially in light of ongoing negotiations with public sector workers. Finance Minister Eric Girard defended the subsidy, emphasizing the economic benefits of hosting the Los Angeles Kings training camp and exhibition games.

From October 2 to 8, Quebec will welcome the Los Angeles Kings for their training camp and two exhibition games against the Boston Bruins and the Florida Panthers. The government’s decision not to cover players’ personal expenses has shed light on the financial arrangements surrounding the event.