Do the Liberals want the CFL to fail?
Cirque du Soleil is an iconic Canadian and company, with its roots in Quebec and its HQ still there.
Many are surprised to learn that it is no longer Canadian-owned however.
60% of the Cirque is owned by TPG Capital – based in Texas, while 20% is owned by Fosun – a Chinese company. The other 20% is owned by the Caisse de depot et placement du Quebec.
Despite that, the Quebec government stepped in big time when the Cirque faced collapse due to show cancellations caused by the CCP Virus Crisis.
The Quebec government offered $200 million to the Cirque, and it is expected to survive in some form going forward, despite massive layoffs.
This isn’t a criticism of the Quebec government, after all they at least show a willingness to defend things they view as part of their culture and history.
The real issue here is the contrast.
Consider the struggles of the CFL, who – like the Cirque – have also suffered because of the crisis (AKA through no fault of their own).
The CFL asked for a $30 million loan, to try and keep the season alive.
They were rejected:
“Federal source says government has denied @CFL’s request for $30 million loan to be directed towards shortened 2020 season. It has committed to work with the league to see what role it can play in its viability beyond ‘20. CFL’s BOG could determine fate of season on Mon.”
Federal source says government has denied @CFL’s request for $30 million loan to be directed towards shortened 2020 season. It has committed to work with the league to see what role it can play in its viability beyond ‘20. CFL’s BOG could determine fate of season on Mon. #CFL
— Dave Naylor (@TSNDaveNaylor) August 17, 2020
We will see what ends up happening with all of this.
That said, the contrast is huge.
The Liberal government – at a time when they are spending unprecedented amounts of money – were unwilling to give $30 million to the CFL.
That speaks to their sense of priorities, and protecting an iconic Canadian-owned league clearly isn’t one of them.
Spencer Fernando
Photo – YouTube
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