From: "Gallant, Brian (LEG)" <Brian.Gallant@gnb.ca>
Date: Wed, 30 Jan 2019 16:52:31 +0000
Subject: RE: RE New Brunswick cancels plan to host 2021 Francophonie
Games as CBC continues to play games with me
To: David Amos <motomaniac333@gmail.com>
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Si ceci est une demande médiatique, prière de la transmettre à
ashley.beaudin@gnb.ca
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Date: Wed, 30 Jan 2019 16:52:32 +0000
Subject: Automatic reply: RE New Brunswick cancels plan to host 2021
Francophonie Games as CBC continues to play games with me
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---------- Original message ----------
From: David Amos <motomaniac333@gmail.com>
Date: Wed, 30 Jan 2019 12:52:26 -0400
Subject: RE New Brunswick cancels plan to host 2021 Francophonie Games
as CBC continues to play games with me
To: robert.gauvin@gnb.ca, Kevin.A.Arseneau@gnb.ca, president@unb.ca,
blaine.higgs@gnb.ca, brian.gallant@gnb.ca, David.Coon@gnb.ca, kris.austin@gnb.ca, Jacques.Poitras@cbc.ca, steve.murphy@ctv.ca, David.Akin@globalnews.ca,
Newsroom@globeandmail.com, news919@rogers.com, news@dailygleaner.com,
bruce.northrup@gnb.ca, megan.mitton@gnb.ca, michelle.conroy@gnb.ca,
rick.desaulniers@gnb.ca, Michel.Carrier@gnb.ca, bruce.fitch@gnb.ca,
Ernie.Steeves@gnb.ca
Cc: david.raymond.amos@gmail.com, darrow.macintyre@cbc.ca,
Hon.Dominic.LeBlanc@canada.ca, Matt.DeCourcey.c1@parl.gc.ca,
Don.Allen@unb.ca, marc.martin@snb.ca, Marc.Martin@nserc-crsng.gc.ca,
Catherine.Tait@cbc.ca, sylvie.gadoury@radio-canada.ca
Chuck.Thompson@cbc.ca, martin.gaudet@fredericton.ca,
andre@jafaust.com, oldmaison@yahoo.com, jbosnitch@gmail.com,
tglynn@stu.ca
https://davidraymondamos3.
https://twitter.com/DavidRayAmos/with_replies
David Raymond Amos @DavidRayAmos
Methinks it
wasn't a "wise decision" but merely common sense to cancel a
questionable entertainment contract that we cannot afford N'esy Pas?
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/francophonie-games-province-blaine-higgs-1.4997694
New Brunswick cancels plan to host 2021 Francophonie Games
Comments
Commenting is now closed for this story.
Commenting is now closed for this story.
Content disabled.
David R. Amos
Methinks that not everyone is Happy Happy Happy in light of the fact that some of my comments still cannot stand the test of time N'esy Pas?
David R. Amos
Methinks folks should tune into CBC Info Morning in Fat Fred City right now N'esy Pas?
David R. Amos
@David R. Amos Did anyone hear Minister Joly's sad lament?
David R. Amos
@David R. Amos Go Figure
The Government of Canada is seeking independent appointments that are based on merit
GATINEAU, QC, June 20, 2017 /CNW/ - The Government of Canada is committed to open and transparent processes for selecting appointees, to help strengthen trust in Canada's democracy and ensure the integrity of its public institutions. Today, the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage, announced the creation of an advisory committee for appointments to the CBC/Radio-Canada Board of Directors.
This independent advisory committee will have a mandate to lead the selection process for the CBC/Radio-Canada Board of Directors. It will present its recommendations for qualified candidates to the Minister.
This independent, non-partisan committee is made up of experts in broadcasting and digital technology, and representatives of cultural sectors from across Canada. Indigenous Peoples, official-language communities and youth are also represented.
The committee will be chaired by Tom Clark from Ontario. Mr. Clark has worked in Canadian television news for the past 45 years.
The Government of Canada is seeking independent appointments that are based on merit
GATINEAU, QC, June 20, 2017 /CNW/ - The Government of Canada is committed to open and transparent processes for selecting appointees, to help strengthen trust in Canada's democracy and ensure the integrity of its public institutions. Today, the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage, announced the creation of an advisory committee for appointments to the CBC/Radio-Canada Board of Directors.
This independent advisory committee will have a mandate to lead the selection process for the CBC/Radio-Canada Board of Directors. It will present its recommendations for qualified candidates to the Minister.
This independent, non-partisan committee is made up of experts in broadcasting and digital technology, and representatives of cultural sectors from across Canada. Indigenous Peoples, official-language communities and youth are also represented.
The committee will be chaired by Tom Clark from Ontario. Mr. Clark has worked in Canadian television news for the past 45 years.
David R. Amos
@David R. Amos Please notice Éric Larocque was appointed
The following people are also appointed to the committee:
Prem Gill (British Columbia) started her career in the television and broadcasting industry. She has more than 20 years' experience in digital media, content creation and entertainment.
Carolyn Warren (Alberta) is a leader in the Canadian cultural sector and has experience with art and broadcasting institutions.
Janelle Wookey (Manitoba), is a Francophone Métis woman from the Prairies and an award-winning artist who works as an independent director and producer in Winnipeg.
Colm Feore, O.C. (Ontario) is a well-known theatre, film and television actor.
Marc Beaudet (Quebec) is a pioneer in the digital content industry in Quebec. He is president and CEO of Turbulent, a company that develops broadcasting platforms.
Monique Savoie (Quebec) is a digital visionary. In 1996, she created the Société des arts technologiques, a creative Montréal space dedicated to technological development.
Alanis Obomsawin, O.C., G.O.Q., C.A.L.Q. (Quebec) is a member of the Abenaki Nation and one of the most distinguished documentary filmmakers in Canada. For more than 40 years, she has been producing films at the National Film Board of Canada that tell about the lives and concerns of First Nations and deal with issues that are important to everyone.
Éric Larocque (New Brunswick) is active in projects related to Acadia and to his community, particularly those that deal with youth. He is director of the organizing committee for the 2021 Games of La Francophonie.
The following people are also appointed to the committee:
Prem Gill (British Columbia) started her career in the television and broadcasting industry. She has more than 20 years' experience in digital media, content creation and entertainment.
Carolyn Warren (Alberta) is a leader in the Canadian cultural sector and has experience with art and broadcasting institutions.
Janelle Wookey (Manitoba), is a Francophone Métis woman from the Prairies and an award-winning artist who works as an independent director and producer in Winnipeg.
Colm Feore, O.C. (Ontario) is a well-known theatre, film and television actor.
Marc Beaudet (Quebec) is a pioneer in the digital content industry in Quebec. He is president and CEO of Turbulent, a company that develops broadcasting platforms.
Monique Savoie (Quebec) is a digital visionary. In 1996, she created the Société des arts technologiques, a creative Montréal space dedicated to technological development.
Alanis Obomsawin, O.C., G.O.Q., C.A.L.Q. (Quebec) is a member of the Abenaki Nation and one of the most distinguished documentary filmmakers in Canada. For more than 40 years, she has been producing films at the National Film Board of Canada that tell about the lives and concerns of First Nations and deal with issues that are important to everyone.
Éric Larocque (New Brunswick) is active in projects related to Acadia and to his community, particularly those that deal with youth. He is director of the organizing committee for the 2021 Games of La Francophonie.
David R. Amos
@David R. Amos continued
The advisory committee will provide the Minister with the names of qualified candidates for each vacant position, as well as supplementary qualified candidates to create a pool to fill posts in the future.
As the digital shift brings many changes in its wake, the public broadcaster continues to play a crucial role in providing us with information and entertainment, as well as helping guide the next generation. As a Crown corporation in the Canadian Heritage portfolio, CBC/Radio‑Canada is an organization that is independent from the government and responsible for its own day-to-day activities.
Quotes
"Our government firmly believes in the importance of our national public broadcaster, CBC/Radio‑Canada. I am pleased to establish this independent advisory committee composed of experts in broadcasting, digital technology and culture, who reflect Canada's diversity. This new committee will recommend qualified candidates for a selection process that is open, transparent and based on merit."
—The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage
Quick Facts
Under the Broadcasting Act, CBC/Radio‑Canada's Board of Directors is composed of 12 directors, including a chair and a president/CEO, appointed by the Governor in Council during good behavior for a maximum period of five years.
The selection processes for the positions of chair, president/CEO, and part-time directors are posted on the Governor in Council's website.
In 2016, the Government of Canada adopted a new approach that requires a selection process be initiated for full-time and part-time positions. Those interested can apply online.
David R. Amos
Methinks Mr Higgs may enjoy a little Deja Vu and find it as interesting as I that Sequin just quoted what the former PANB dude Randall Leavitt had to say about this topic within his Twitter account N'esy Pas?
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/people-s-alliance-welcome-unhappy-progressive-conservative-member-1.4131613
"Randall Leavitt
liberals and conservatives have taken us to $14billion financial cliffs, both practice patronage appointments, have had numerous scandals, love corporate handouts and mismanagement. Those who continue to vote for them are getting something majority of NBers are not. The People Alliance had an intensive platform last election and have laid some pretty major planks already for the next. Those who blindly give their votes will continue to do so to get same old results. The People's Alliance is an option for any, especially for those who don't vote to finally be heard and take part in a Democratic Party."
Marguerite Deschamps
Over 300 comments and counting... llol!
Harold Benson
@Marguerite Deschamps Keyboard is worn out.
Content disabled.
David R. Amos
@Harold Benson Methinks Sam would agree that the tally of disabled comments is not one bit funny N'esy Pas?
David R. Amos
@Marguerite Deschamps Methinks these are the comments that counted N'esy Pas?
"People's Alliance Leader Kris Austin, wheose party is supporting the PC minority government in the legislature, said Higgs made the right decision.
Austin also said that, as a federal taxpayer, he was glad Ottawa opted not to bail out the event.
"I'd much rather see federal money going to things that are needed in New Brunswick and I don't see Games as one of them."
Despite the polarized reactions, Higgs said he didn't think his decision would contribute to linguistic divisions."
Mack Leigh
Thank you to all involved in making this wise decision !!
Content disabled.
David R. Amos
David R. Amos
@Mack Leigh Methinks it
wasn't a "wise decision" but merely common sense to cancel a
questionable entertainment contract that we cannot afford N'esy Pas?
David R. Amos
Surprise Surprise Surprise
David R. Amos
@David R. Amos Now everybody is Happy Happy Happy
Mack Leigh
@David R. Amos
No, but it is a great start toward sound fiscal management...
No, but it is a great start toward sound fiscal management...
David R. Amos
The Former SANB President
Kevin Arseneau said the Tories could have increase their commitment "a
little bit" to demonstrate a willingness to save the Games. "The message
that Higgs just gave New Brunswickers is that we're too small to do big
things here,"
Methinks some folks may not like that I say nobody should care what the former wannabe liberal candidate has to say about anything N'esy Pas?
Survey Say
Methinks some folks may not like that I say nobody should care what the former wannabe liberal candidate has to say about anything N'esy Pas?
Survey Say
Joe campbell
@David R. Amos got a free trip to France https://www2.gnb.ca/content/gnb/en/departments/jeux/multimedia/mmrenderer.2013.09.2013-09-09_2.jpg.html
David R. Amos
@Joe campbell Nope not me
Joe campbell
@David R. Amos Kevin the story teler, went after he worked for US shale company
David R. Amos
@Joe campbell Oh My My ain't
that special? Methinks my friend Roger Richard would have loved to have
known that when he ran against Arseneau in Kent North N'esy Pas?
@Joe campbell Hey Joe Thanks
Games of La Francophonie
Healthy and Inclusive Communities, September 9, 2013 - Nice, France
Story-teller Kevin Arseneau goes before the jury, public at la Francophonie Games
Kevin Arseneau, originally from Robertville and living in Cocagne, captured the interest of the public and the jury members today during the story-telling competitions at the VIIth Jeux de la Francophonie, held at the Théâtre national de Nice in France. Arseneau told a story relating to Acadian history that describes the relationship between a small boy and a tree. The naming of the finalists should come on Sept. 11 with the final presentation on the evening of Sept. 12.
Ian Scott
Sad it got this far to begin
with. It was still a crap bid from a committee that never did its due
diligence to begin with. Still will cost province millions to back out
of , a complete waste of taxpayer money, except for committee people
that got paid. They should not be able to touch a single project again
without oversight.
These events are far above what small provinces can afford given security issues, housing, infrastructure etc. Even the Olympics are becoming questionable in current form. At the national level we are running deficits, despite relatively good working and banking times , a harbinger of some very tough tax days ahead to pay it off.( Libs will never do that of course, leave it for Cons to pay back)
These events are far above what small provinces can afford given security issues, housing, infrastructure etc. Even the Olympics are becoming questionable in current form. At the national level we are running deficits, despite relatively good working and banking times , a harbinger of some very tough tax days ahead to pay it off.( Libs will never do that of course, leave it for Cons to pay back)
Matt Steele
@Ian Scott ......Very true .
Plus there has been about 2.5 MILLION of the taxpayers money spent on
these Francophonie games already ; not to mention all of the people who
had personal connections to Brian Gallant and the Liberal party who have
been drawing a salary from the games.....quite the SCAM !
Bernard McIntyre
@Ian Scott well maybe the
province should make these people pay back the money they received for
making such a stupid bid to the government but then again the people of
the liberal government who knew of this new amount without telling the
people of N.B before the election should also be charged with misleading
the people of N.B.
David R. Amos
@Bernard McIntyre Dream on
Bernard McIntyre
@David R. Amos yes I know.
David R. Amos
@Mack Leigh Methinks you should begin an investigation by asking yourself why my reply to you went "Poof" N'esy Pas?
John Valcourt
This was the governments best decision to date.
David R. Amos
@John Valcourt Methinks that should make you question its competence N'esy Pas?
Craig Nettles
Maybe they should host the Anglophone games......... Wonder if we tried that how that would go over.
David R. Amos
@Craig Nettles Methinks the Circus we are financing inside the legislative building is enough entertainment for now N'esy Pas?
Jake Quinlan
Interesting decision. This
citizen supports it. I confess I didn't examine the "economic spinoff"
argument side of hosting the games but suspect the estimates were too
high.
Mack Leigh
@Jake Quinlan
Based on the original bid of 17 million , the committee showed there would be a 25 million spin off.... I believe those are the figures that were reported..
Based on the original bid of 17 million , the committee showed there would be a 25 million spin off.... I believe those are the figures that were reported..
David R. Amos
@Mack Leigh Methinks it was all Pure D BS N'esy Pas?
Marc LeBlanc
A classic "no brainer"
David R. Amos
@Marc LeBlanc YUP
Jackie Barrett
As a result of New Brunswick
pulling out of the 2021 La Jeux Francophonie, the games will end up
being awarded to Sherbrooke, Quebec as they were the runner up.
This is not a first time that an awarded host city pulled out of their event.
In fact, right after Sarajevo were awarded the right to host the 2009 Special Olympics World Winter Games, the Bosnian city cancelled their hosting rights, forcing Special Olympics International to find another host city, with the games eventually awarded to Boise.
The same thing also happened with the 2019 Special Olympics World Summer Games as three host nation finalists, notably Australia, South Africa, and Germany, withdrew their bids for this event. Abu Dhabi was eventually awarded these games.
Its shameful when host city crises are not only happening with the Olympics/Paralympics, but also the Special Olympics World Games (which uses existing athletic venues) , Special Olympics Canada Games (notably the funding dispute with Halifax which cost them a right to host the 2018 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games which were awarded to Antigonish), Canada Games (with Newfoundland and Labrador withdrawing the 2021 hosting rights), and now the La Jeux Francophonie.
This is not a first time that an awarded host city pulled out of their event.
In fact, right after Sarajevo were awarded the right to host the 2009 Special Olympics World Winter Games, the Bosnian city cancelled their hosting rights, forcing Special Olympics International to find another host city, with the games eventually awarded to Boise.
The same thing also happened with the 2019 Special Olympics World Summer Games as three host nation finalists, notably Australia, South Africa, and Germany, withdrew their bids for this event. Abu Dhabi was eventually awarded these games.
Its shameful when host city crises are not only happening with the Olympics/Paralympics, but also the Special Olympics World Games (which uses existing athletic venues) , Special Olympics Canada Games (notably the funding dispute with Halifax which cost them a right to host the 2018 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games which were awarded to Antigonish), Canada Games (with Newfoundland and Labrador withdrawing the 2021 hosting rights), and now the La Jeux Francophonie.
Doug Leblanc
@Jackie Barrett
According to CBC, they had the highest score after the international games committee visited and reviewed their bid. NB only scored higher in the budget category as they copied the example budget. You raise an excellent point. Perhaps the bid process needs to be evaluated... why was a city chosen that scored lower.
According to CBC, they had the highest score after the international games committee visited and reviewed their bid. NB only scored higher in the budget category as they copied the example budget. You raise an excellent point. Perhaps the bid process needs to be evaluated... why was a city chosen that scored lower.
Dave Peters
@Jackie Barrett This should
tell you something Jackie with respect. More & more jurisdictionshttps://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2464308071878322421#editor/target=post;postID=8686958584400552295;onPublishedMenu=allposts;onClosedMenu=allposts;postNum=0;src=link
are cancelling international sporting events for different reasons.
Perhaps it's time to look at another funding model, i.e corporate
sponsorship, cost sharing, membership fees. Many different ways to
circumvent the cancellations you just mentioned.
David Peters
@Dave Peters
I think perception is reality here. It's simply a $100 Million free for all on the taxpayer's dime.
I think perception is reality here. It's simply a $100 Million free for all on the taxpayer's dime.
David R. Amos
@David Peters Methinks
perception definitely is reality here as Mr Peters confers with Mr
Peters while they both ignore my comments, phone calls and emails etc
N'esy Pas?
Jackie Barrett
The statement said the
committee will await "next steps" from Ottawa "and will work with them
to assess any possible options to keep the games in Canada."
Sherbrooke, Quebec will likely get the 2021 La Jeux Francophonie as they were the runner up.
Sherbrooke, Quebec will likely get the 2021 La Jeux Francophonie as they were the runner up.
Shawn McShane
@Jackie Barrett They pulled out and that left only NB.
David R. Amos
@Shawn McShane Methinks if
the Quebeckers are wiseguys they will take a wide berth of the 2021 La
Jeux Francophonie now N'esy Pas?
Shawn McShane
@David R. Amos They should,
they got snubbed. A confidential document obtained by Radio-Canada
reveals an assessment of the bids to host the 2021 Francophonie Games
gave top points to Sherbrooke, Que. who withdrew after learning the
international committee wanted New Brunswick. OIF said the document was
confidential and refused all comment. https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/sherbrooke-candidacy-scored-higher-francophonie-games-1.4956301
David R. Amos
@Shawn McShane I already checked out your tip
Jackie Barrett
@Shawn McShane Sherbrooke lost to Moncton.
David R. Amos
@Jackie Barrett Methinks you should read the article Mr McSjane provides in the link N'esy Pas?
Shawn McShane
@Jackie Barrett Moncton lost to Sherbrooke but got the games anyway
Bob Smith
A common sense move. If
Gallant had won the election as the pollsters predicted, he would have
stood before a dais surrounded by Melanson, Rogers et al pronouncing
this as a great cultural event and treated any opposition to the costs
as being bitter, anti-French bigots. In the end, the only truly unhappy
by the cancelling are the developers Gallant was going to line their
pockets with games money at taxpayer expense.
David R. Amos
@Bob Smith "In the end, the only truly unhappy by the cancelling are the developers"
Methinks they have been crying for quite sometime N'esy Pas?
Methinks they have been crying for quite sometime N'esy Pas?
Axel Roosevelt
Too bad that Green party goof Kevin Arseneaule can't be cancelled.
David R. Amos
@Axel Roosevelt I wholeheartedly agree
Sylvius Salvarian
These big international sporting events are usually a waste of resources.
But, NB had agreed to host this one. There is value in honouring your agreements. I fear this will have a chilling effect on investment in NB where the business requires the participation or approval of the government.
This isn't like Calgary choosing not the launch a bid for the Olympics. NB already won the bid to host these games. These games are already scheduled.
I question the wisdom of backing out now, just as I question the wisdom of bidding in the first place.
But, NB had agreed to host this one. There is value in honouring your agreements. I fear this will have a chilling effect on investment in NB where the business requires the participation or approval of the government.
This isn't like Calgary choosing not the launch a bid for the Olympics. NB already won the bid to host these games. These games are already scheduled.
I question the wisdom of backing out now, just as I question the wisdom of bidding in the first place.
Ross Piercey
@Sylvius Salvarian it was a go until the cost went from 10m to 150m, doesn’t take much questioning to figure out why.
Shawn McShane
@Sylvius Salvarian NB never
"won" the bid. The document, titled "technical evaluation report of the
candidacies," prepared by the International Organization of the
Francophonie (OIF) after officials visited host cities said Sherbrooke
came in first.
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/sherbrooke-candidacy-scored-higher-francophonie-games-1.4956301
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/sherbrooke-candidacy-scored-higher-francophonie-games-1.4956301
David R. Amos
@Shawn McShane Hmmm
David R. Amos
@David R. Amos Methinks folks should read CBC's revelations closer N'esy Pas?
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/sherbrooke-candidacy-scored-higher-francophonie-games-1.4956301
"The assessment looked at criteria that included the host cities' vision for the games, their infrastructure and financing. It ranked the candidates out of a score of 1,000.
Sherbrooke ended up with 946 points, Moncton-Dieppe with 938 and Guadeloupe with 813.
New Brunswick scored higher than Sherbrooke in only three categories, including budget and financing."
Jim Cyr
@Sylvius Salvarian : Sylvius, with all due respect, some people DESERVE to be offended.
In this case, Higgs is offending all the right people.
In this case, Higgs is offending all the right people.
Mike LeBlanc
I just love how articles like this makes the bilingualism opposers freak out.
David R. Amos
@Mike LeBlanc Me Too However Methinks it is for different reasons than you enjoy N'esy Pas?
daryl doucette
@Mike LeBlanc I don't see any
one here " freaking out". Maybe a bit giddy that some one has the
sense to cancel this colossal waste of money. The only ones " freaking
out" will be that bunch at the SANB and the Atconites whom now will not
be filling their pockets on this issue.
Grace Morris
Waiting to hear what pulling
out will cost. On top of what was already spent, I might add. NB should
put the $10 million they earmarked for the games into physical education
in our schools.
David R. Amos
@Grace Morris Welcome back to the Circus
Neville Crabbe
I'm glad this is done and
over with. Too much time and acrimony spent on something completely
superfluous and extremely fishy to begin with. Good decision.
David R. Amos
@Neville Crabbe "Too much time and acrimony spent on something completely superfluous and extremely fishy to begin with."
Methinks that is always the way things go in the Maritimes when it comes to politics and money N'esy Pas?
Methinks that is always the way things go in the Maritimes when it comes to politics and money N'esy Pas?
David Stairs
now the Acadie can figure out
how to pay for their mistakes because the taxpayer is not responsible
for your incompetence and arrogance...and making promises that you could
not keep...you alone are responsible for the "Pulling Out Costs"..you
and Brian Gallant..and I am so glad the liberals lost the election
because the people of New Brunswick would have had to swallow another
blunder entitlement..
David R. Amos
@David Stairs Methinks we
could save some taxpayers some grief by stopping the funding SANB and
their self serving nonsense N'esy Pas?
Mack Leigh
@David R. Amos
Totally agree !!
Totally agree !!
Bill Smith
Now how about a complete
forensic audit done by the RCMP to see how much money was wasted by the
organizing committee! The taxpayers deserve to know how much money and
where it was spent!
David R. Amos
@Bill Smith Methinks we should do a complete forensic audit of the RCMP first N'esy Pas?
Barb Flewwelling
At the very least we deserve
to know how they were able to make such a huge mistake regarding the
cost of the games! If these were the same people who were tasked with
running the games then obviously they were not qualified for the job.
And we prudently avoided a disaster on many levels. Stick to your guns
Mr. Premier Higgs and don’t pay any heed to the unhelpful petty
politics of the federal liberals.
daryl doucette
@Barb Flewwelling Don't be
naïve barb. There was no " mistake "....it was deliberately low balled
so the taxpayers would accept it. Then the Atconites would swoop in for
the prize!
Bill Smith
@David R. Amos good point la!
Roy Kirk
With the current political
climate it is too bad they had to cancel these games, but they had to do
it to make it clear that low-ball bids followed by steep price hikes
will not be tolerated by government. It would be nice if the same
message was delivered to all those who seek to draw on the public purse.
David R. Amos
@Roy Kirk "With the current political climate it is too bad they had to cancel these games"
Methinks thou doth jest too much N'esy Pas?
Methinks thou doth jest too much N'esy Pas?
david kirby
I am no financial genius but I
am sure I could do better than the original budget estimate for these
games. Thus the issue is just what 'expert' did the estimate. Similarly
with the Nfld fiasco Muskrat Falls, and the Feds buying fighter jets.
David R. Amos
@david kirby "I am no financial genius"
Nor I However methinks Mr Higgs cannot deny that I am a rather well known whistle-blower against financial crimes N'esy Pas?
Nor I However methinks Mr Higgs cannot deny that I am a rather well known whistle-blower against financial crimes N'esy Pas?
Lou Bell
When you need to designate "
provinces " on equal billing as countries , it's obvious this is just a
watered down group of countries , trying to buy their way into
relevancy as some type of Commonwealth .
David R. Amos
@Lou Bell Methinks you must
know that the "provinces" etc are all corporations For instance many
Canadian entities file with the Yankee SEC including the Corporation
known as Canada N'esy Pas?
Shawn McShane
@Lou Bell When Ottawa hosted
the Francophonie games Canadian immigration officials said it was highly
unusual to receive so many refugee claims from a single sporting event.
Lou Bell
Did this Liberal appointed
committee have any kind of mandate when the Liberal Government gave them
the go ahead to apply for the games , or were they just told to " WING
IT !!" ?
David R. Amos
@Lou Bell Methinks they all
flew over the Coocoo's nest first in order to qualify for the committee
and have been winging it ever since N'esy Pas?
June Arnott
It is interesting how the
dollar amounts can change so much. Just like the Olympics or World Cup
Soccer there are people lining their pockets.
I am glad and sad it was canceled. We need to focus our money on healthcare, education, seniors care and so much more.
I am glad and sad it was canceled. We need to focus our money on healthcare, education, seniors care and so much more.
David R. Amos
@June Arnott Methinks it was very interesting that the committee could cut the costs in half overnight N'esy Pas?
@David R. Amos - As could the deckhands the chairs on the Titanic when they realized that was the only way to stay afloat.
Pierre LaRoches
@June Arnott yes Gallants friends, wife and Liberal supporters all in line.
A New Brunswick Provincial
Government has ended the folly of financial excess which has plagued the
province for decades. Thank you Mr Higgs for staying the course and
keeping tax payers safe from another poorly thought out government
sponsored boondoggle. The citizens of Calgary said no to the Olympics
because they learned from experience that these huge events always take
on a life of their own and the taxpayers are always left on the hook.
Any politician no matter their stripe should be encouraged to manage the
public purse responsively. Thank you again. It’s refreshing to see real
leadership for a change.
David R. Amos
@Don Hulsman "A New Brunswick
Provincial Government has ended the folly of financial excess which has
plagued the province for decades."
Methinks many would agree that it would not be wise to bet the farm on your opinion of Mr Higgs N'esy Pas?
Methinks many would agree that it would not be wise to bet the farm on your opinion of Mr Higgs N'esy Pas?
Chuck Michaels
@David R. Amos - Can't afford
a farm anymore because of Federal policies - but you are right. I
believe ACTIONS - not words. This was a good action. Let's see what
tomorrow brings - d'accord?
David R. Amos
@Chuck Michaels "I believe ACTIONS - not words."
Are you aware of my lawsuit against the Crown?
Are you aware of my lawsuit against the Crown?
John Harris
strange how it only came to
light after the election and removal of a Liberal Government, that the
true cost of the games was evident. All along before that, the costs
were estimated to be 17 million, all of a sudden 17 became 130 million,
now the same committee says they can cut to 69 million ( still over 4
times the amount the Liberals were floating out there. Imagine if they
were elected with a majority, the games would be trudging along and it
wouldn't be until after they were over that we would learn even a
smidgen of the truth of the cost. Shame on Dominic Leblanc for
insinuating that the Conservatives were planning to scrap the games all
along as an anti french move. The federal liberals were ready to support
the provincial liberals with huge hand outs for the games, but went
silent after the election and now are saying they would only match the
provincial amount dollar for dollar, knowing the conservatives were
going to commit 10 million max and so with the federal 10 million, it
would not be anywhere enough. Good move to cancel something that we
already spent several million on so some liberal hacks could traipse
around looking important. I wonder where all the initial "study" etc
monies has gone.
David R. Amos
@John Harris "strange how it
only came to light after the election and removal of a Liberal
Government, that the true cost of the games was evident. "
Methinks all the party leaders knew about the issue long before the writ was dropped but failed to mention it because they were all courting the French vote N'esy Pas?
Methinks all the party leaders knew about the issue long before the writ was dropped but failed to mention it because they were all courting the French vote N'esy Pas?
@David R. Amos with all due
respect it is hard to read your comments when everything starts with "me
thinks" and ends with the Chiac phrase. If you want people to take you
seriously speak a little more coherently.
Content disabled.
David R. Amos
David R. Amos
@Rob Mason Methinks you are fooling nobody Your comment easily proves that you have no respect for me whatsoever N'esy Pas?
Bill Carruthers
@Rob Mason I agree. Please
Mr. Amos, drop the Elizabethan English ( Shakespearean English) and the
Chiac ending to what might have been an otherwise interesting point,
although I don't always agree with you. I hope you hadn't planned on
speaking like that if you had of got elected.
Matt Steele
These over priced
Francophonie games was just another mess created by Brian Gallant and
Dominic BeBlanc that Higgs had to clean up.....Gallant did a lot of
damage to N.B. with his out of control spending and never ending tax
hikes .
David R. Amos
@Matt Steele Methinks
everybody knows the PC Party was well aware of the nonsense out of the
gate and nobody said nothing the writ was dropped N'esy Pas?
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/government-spent-thousands-bid-event-1.3529841
"New Brunswick provincial and municipal governments spent more than $286,000 on wine, gifts and travel to secure the right to host the 2021 Francophonie Games, documents obtained by CBC News reveal.
The receipts show how local officials wined and dined jury members in November during a visit to Moncton and Dieppe, which ultimately won the right to host the event.
Thousands of dollars more were spent sending a delegation of New Brunswickers to West Africa as part of the bidding process.
But officials say the spending — which adds up to $286,686.66 so far and doesn't include the cost of actually putting on the games five years from now — is worth the financial rewards they believe the event will deliver."
"There has to be a discipline involved'
Interim Progressive Conservative Opposition Leader Bruce Fitch has criticized the Liberals in the past for spending thousands on a networking dinner aimed at encouraging New Brunswickers to return home.
But Fitch says he sees a clearer return on investment in spending to win the right to host the Francophonie Games.
"The taxpayers, they'll deal with the respective politicians when it comes time to vote on whether they think that's a good investment or not," Fitch said."
Archie Levesque
So if the Liberals want these
games so badly you would think they would be falling all over
themselves to pull out the magic wallet and fund them. But instead they
are just using the opportunity to bash the provincial government. If the
previous gov't had kept control of this and didn't allow it to balloon
out of control something could have been done.
stephen blunston
@Archie Levesque I AGREE ANYONE WITH COMMON SENSE SHOULD HAVE KNOW THERE WAS NO WAY IT COULD HAVE BEEN DONE FOR 17 MILLION
David R. Amos
@Archie Levesque Relax its just politicking
Chuck Michaels
Thank you Mr. Higgs. Merci.
@Chuck Michaels Methinks you
should ask Mr Higgs about our spit and chew in front of many witnesses
in October of 2015 while I was running in the election of the 42nd
Parliament and he was supporting his lawyer buddy Rob Moore N'esy Pas?
stephen blunston
good for mr higgs it is about
time we stopped throwing away money we don't have , it would have been
nice to have these games but we cant afford it we are far enough in debt
and to go further would be a dumb move, this is how we are in such bad
shape previous governments of both stripe just spent spent spent on
nothing beneficial, I am sorry but feel good events should never be
concidr4ed until we at least get a surplus budget and can start paying
down our ballooning debt
David R. Amos
@stephen blunston Methinks
you are absolutely right but you should back away from Mr Higgs and his
blue koolaid and think for yourself N'esy Pas?
elmer tate
Ahh Who cares.....Quebec can save money by not using Petroleum to travel or watch the Games on TV using precious Energy
@elmer tate Quebec gets
billions in free money each year from Churchill Falls and their
outrageous transfer payments from alberta. If Trudeau and Dominique
are so hell bent on being seen in public for a one week francophone
sporting shin dig, pre election photo op and party, let them have it in
Quebec and let Quebec pay for it.
David R. Amos
@daryl doucette I agree
elmer tate
Im not from New Brunswick....But Good...
David R. Amos
@elmer tate Why?
Toby Tolly
@elmer tate
yeah
why are you not from NB
yeah
why are you not from NB
Joe campbell
Take some of the money saved and give it to the auditor general and do a good look at New Brunswick's books.
David R. Amos
@Joe campbell I concur
Pierre LaRoches
@Joe campbell budget will have more money for AG. It’s coming.
brad stang
celebrate the Francophonie, doesn't sound too "inclusive" to me Mr JT.
David R. Amos
@brad stang Good Point Sir
Toby Tolly
I see Jacques has added his name to this article now
he even added a french tweeter...
so appropriate
he even added a french tweeter...
so appropriate
David R. Amos
@Toby Tolly Ain't that special?
Greg Miller
Thank you Premier Higgs.
David R. Amos
@Greg Miller Methinks you tell that to all the Conservatives guys N'esy Pas?
Ken Parker
Good decision. These games are a joke and should not be funded to any extent by the taxpayer.
David R. Amos
@Ken Parker "These games are a joke "
True
True
Norm Mohamid
Well two things - no problem
with provinces picking up billions in deficits for Olympic games
(Vancouver)- definitely a problem; Francophone games - stop the waste.
Why does stopping the waste make sense for one and not for the other?
Franco-Canadians know the answer to that one.
David R. Amos
@Norm Mohamid "Franco-Canadians know the answer to that one."
We all do
We all do
John Brown
Good decision.
David R. Amos
@John Brown Methinks many
would agree that it was Just a very predictable decision because Kris
Austin would have it go no other way N'esy Pas?
Steve Maclean
Good for them. They knew
what would happen. Over budget and misappropriation of funds same as
always with anything the government touches.
David R. Amos
@Steve Maclean "They knew what would happen."
Its not rocket science
Its not rocket science
Lucas Williams
Premier Blaine Higgs
displayed sound commonsense in announcing the province's decision to
refuse to place unneeded economic hardships on New Brunswick, citizens
unlike the Trudeau government that time and time again arrogantly throws
away Canadians' tax dollars on foreigners that should have been spent
on social infrastructure for all Canadians.
David R. Amos
@Lucas Williams Methinks
Higgss merely canceled one of the Gallant government's schemes but
everybody knows Gallant was following Trudeau's pied piper Mr Leblanc
N'esy Pas?
Terrance Thomasen
Holy crap. was that fiscal responsibility being demonstrated. Way to go Mr Premier. Keep fixing the Liberal mistakes.
David R. Amos
@Terrance Thomasen Methinks many would agree that it is just one act within a rather entertaining circus N'esy Pas?
Steve Maclean
Probably a violation of human rights anyway. Imagine having English speaking games. No protest over that.
David R. Amos
@Steve Maclean Mais Oui
Dan Lee
@Steve Maclean
If you had bothered to read and not yap before looking you would have seen that theses games were not only for the french but for any body good enough.......you should have tried.......your probably good at making a fool of yourself
If you had bothered to read and not yap before looking you would have seen that theses games were not only for the french but for any body good enough.......you should have tried.......your probably good at making a fool of yourself
linda stoddard
@Steve Maclean - what do you call the "common wealth" games????
David R. Amos
@linda stoddard Touche
Marc Martin
@Steve Maclean
* Imagine having English speaking games. No protest over that.*
Exactly...
* Imagine having English speaking games. No protest over that.*
Exactly...
Steve Maclean
@linda stoddard do you know what the common wealth games are?????
Steve Maclean
@Dan Lee you so funny. You laught at you own jokes????
michael levesque
once again common sense
prevails. sad to see the Kevin Arseneau (liberal with a green tie) not
offer a plan on how to save the games and super shame on the Liberals
for making it a language issue. another reason to never vote liberal
again.
David R. Amos
@michael levesque "once again common sense prevails."
Nope Kris Austin prevailed
Nope Kris Austin prevailed
Marguerite Deschamps
"The message that Higgs just gave New Brunswickers is that we're too small to do big things here."
That"s an understatement.
New Brunswick: - "Petit peuple, mangeurs de hotdogs!"
That"s an understatement.
New Brunswick: - "Petit peuple, mangeurs de hotdogs!"
David R. Amos
@Marguerite Deschamps Methinks that is not the first tune about Mr Higgs that you will sing this evening N'esy Pas?
Doug Leblanc
@Marguerite Deschamps
No the message is that Brian Gallant got his friends well paying jobs and hid the true cost from tax payers. The true extent of the scandal was only realized when he lost the election and failed to maintain power. Hopefully the RCMP investigate and if there only conclusion is that NB is too small to do big things, then we can agree.
No the message is that Brian Gallant got his friends well paying jobs and hid the true cost from tax payers. The true extent of the scandal was only realized when he lost the election and failed to maintain power. Hopefully the RCMP investigate and if there only conclusion is that NB is too small to do big things, then we can agree.
John Conrad
From $17 to $130 to a "conciliatory" $62 million?
Better to spend 10% of the lower figure on remedial math for the "bright sparks" who put this package together.
And now what is the cancellation penalty claimed to be owed?
"Under the Francophonie's rules, a host government that pulls out is responsible for "any financial claims" related to commitments the international organization made for the games."
So then who's on the hook for all the preparatory wining and dining that probably involved, and where did this take place?
This whole thing stinks like a barrel of lobster bait on a hot day, and maybe the N.B. auditor general ought to look into it..
Better to spend 10% of the lower figure on remedial math for the "bright sparks" who put this package together.
And now what is the cancellation penalty claimed to be owed?
"Under the Francophonie's rules, a host government that pulls out is responsible for "any financial claims" related to commitments the international organization made for the games."
So then who's on the hook for all the preparatory wining and dining that probably involved, and where did this take place?
This whole thing stinks like a barrel of lobster bait on a hot day, and maybe the N.B. auditor general ought to look into it..
David R. Amos
@John Conrad Methinks the
fancy Francophonie dudes will have a hard time collecting their penalty
fees from a province that is nearly bankrupt and with guys such as I
just chomping at the bit to intervene in a lawsuit about the matter
N'esy Pas?
Matt Steele
@John Conrad .......It is the
taxpayers who are on the hook for all the preparatory wining and
dining as event organizers have already spent around 2.5 MILLION of the
taxpayers cash on the event ; not to mention the fact that these paid
organizers were personal friends of Brian Gallant and the Liberal
party....a massive scam , and waste of hard earned taxpayer dollars .
George Smith
@ Marguerite Deschamps
"The message that Higgs just gave New Brunswickers is that we're too small to do big things here."
That"s an understatement.
Not the message at all. The message is we can't afford to waste millions on a party for a few participants and a few fans. And I guarantee the majority of N.B. residents just like the majority here are on board with Higgs.
"The message that Higgs just gave New Brunswickers is that we're too small to do big things here."
That"s an understatement.
Not the message at all. The message is we can't afford to waste millions on a party for a few participants and a few fans. And I guarantee the majority of N.B. residents just like the majority here are on board with Higgs.
David R. Amos
@George Smith Methinks
everybody know why I won't hold my breath waiting for for you to get an
ethical reply from the SANB minion N'esy Pas?
Marc Martin
@David R. Amos
*ethical reply from the SANB minion *
For you every French people who disagree with you are SANB minions..
George Smith
George Smith @Jackie Barrett
A "We can't afford to pay for games when our infrastructure and social programs are having a hard time being financed. "
B " It will do more long term harm on New Brunswick as nobody will want to host big sporting events in that province anymore, lost tax revenue and tourism spinoffs,"
Comment against games 44 for 1 against Comment for games 1 for 39 against. N.B. says no.
A "We can't afford to pay for games when our infrastructure and social programs are having a hard time being financed. "
B " It will do more long term harm on New Brunswick as nobody will want to host big sporting events in that province anymore, lost tax revenue and tourism spinoffs,"
Comment against games 44 for 1 against Comment for games 1 for 39 against. N.B. says no.
Claude DeRoche
@George Smith
More like the COR party Boy saying no! LOL!
More like the COR party Boy saying no! LOL!
David R. Amos
@Claude DeRoche Methinks you SANB dudes are the only ones finding this nonsense funny N'esy Pas?
Marc Martin
@David R. Amos
*you SANB dudes *
Do people still say dude in 2019 ?
*you SANB dudes *
Do people still say dude in 2019 ?
daryl doucette
@Marc Martin Hey pal! Ja'i wonderin ou et tu been? Ca va?
Daryl McMurphy
Jeez, does that mean Quebecer's will have to pay for this second tier athletic event. Again.
David R. Amos
@Daryl McMurphy Nope
linda stoddard
If Higgs made this decision
based on finances only fine- However, if he made the decision on
anti-French pressure from Austin it will cause a bigger riff in the
province. Let's hope it's the former and not the latter reason.
David R. Amos
@linda stoddard Methinks nobody cares about the reason as long as we are off the hook for the nonsense N'esy Pas?
Dianne MacPherson
@linda stoddard
Better do your 'homework' on Mr. Higgs.....
you clearly have not been watching him
these last few months !!!!
Better do your 'homework' on Mr. Higgs.....
you clearly have not been watching him
these last few months !!!!
linda stoddard
@David R. Amos - I care - financial reasons- O.K.
- bigotry promoted by Austin- NOT O.K.
- bigotry promoted by Austin- NOT O.K.
Emery Hyslop-Margison
@linda stoddard The province
is hopelessly in debt with a declining tax base. The cost of these
games jumped from 17 million to 130 million. Cancelling the fiasco is a
no brainer.
Richard Dunn
Very disappointed to read the
comments by Part Time Moncton East MLA Monique LeBlanc. She is doing
nothing but trying to create a further divide in this province. I guess
she was well trained by her BFF Brian Gallant.
It is a shame that she was even re-elected. She does not live in her riding, she maintains a full time practice as a Physiotherapist while living off the taxpayers as she collects a MLA salary.
I am glad to see her being called out in the media today for her use of the word "deplorable."
It is a shame that she was even re-elected. She does not live in her riding, she maintains a full time practice as a Physiotherapist while living off the taxpayers as she collects a MLA salary.
I am glad to see her being called out in the media today for her use of the word "deplorable."
David R. Amos
@Richard Dunn "She is doing nothing but trying to create a further divide in this province"
Methinks that is what she has been ordered to do N'esy Pas?
Methinks that is what she has been ordered to do N'esy Pas?
Michel Martin
@Richard Dunn and Higgs lol lol
Fred Brewer
Bravo Mr. Higgs! And don't
pay a penny of cancellation fees. Let them try to sue for it and drag it
out in the courts for years. They will soon realize its not worth it.
David R. Amos
@Fred Brewer "don't pay a penny of cancellation fees. Let them try to sue for it and drag it out in the courts for years."
Claude DeRoche
The COR party Boy cancelled highway 11 and now the Francophonie games!
He is not very fond of Acadians!
Kevin Vickers will send the Irving boy packing to the Bermudas!
He is not very fond of Acadians!
Kevin Vickers will send the Irving boy packing to the Bermudas!
David R. Amos
@Claude DeRoche "Kevin Vickers will send the Irving boy packing to the Bermudas!"
Methinks if he throws his hat in the ring I should consider running against Mr Vickers for some very obvious reasons N'esy Pas?
Methinks if he throws his hat in the ring I should consider running against Mr Vickers for some very obvious reasons N'esy Pas?
Claude DeRoche
@David R. Amos
Acadians will never trust the CORservative party in 100 years.
Acadians will never trust the CORservative party in 100 years.
Dianne MacPherson
@Claude DeRoche
NBers who think like you couldn't
care less about this Province !!!!
We don't need you !!!!!
NBers who think like you couldn't
care less about this Province !!!!
We don't need you !!!!!
Marc Martin
@Claude DeRoche
I agree.
I agree.
Marc Martin
@David R. Amos
We all know your jealous they didnt ask you to run for Liberals Davis.
We all know your jealous they didnt ask you to run for Liberals Davis.
Marc Martin
@Dianne MacPherson
Maybe he does not need you ?
Maybe he does not need you ?
daryl doucette
@Claude DeRoche The ones on
da " Nort Shore" trusted Mr. Gauvin.....and he and his party just saved
NB 65 million dollars? Stop with the hatred!
David R. Amos
@Marc Martin Who is Davis?
David R. Amos
@Claude DeRoche "Acadians will never trust the CORservative party in 100 years."
Methinks you forgot that I always run as an Independent N'esy Pas?
Methinks you forgot that I always run as an Independent N'esy Pas?
Jim Cyr
@Claude DeRoche I am
ashamed of being an Acadian when they engage in such utter corruption
and stupidity as the Francophonie Games fiasco. (Comments such as
yours only add to the shame....)
Dan Lee
@Jim Cyr
Yea and i was a roman emperor in my other life
Yea and i was a roman emperor in my other life
Seamus O'hern
@Claude DeRoche ...."he is not very fond of acadians".....who is?
Claude DeRoche
What else to expect from Higgs who is blackmailing his own citizens,
that if they refuse to allow fracking he will send back to Ottawa NB's equalization transfers!
COR party, Crown Prince of Bermuda
that if they refuse to allow fracking he will send back to Ottawa NB's equalization transfers!
COR party, Crown Prince of Bermuda
David R. Amos
@Claude DeRoche Oh My My
Marc Martin
@Claude DeRoche
Exactly.
Exactly.
Jonathan Berry
In a province grappling with
immense debts and an aging tax revenue base endeavors like these are not
wise and should be taken off the table. There is an old expression
"don't live beyond your means" people in this province would do well to
heed this advise and you can do it in both official languages.
David R. Amos
@Jonathan Berry "you can do it in both official languages."
Methinks that has not worked out too well thus far N'esy Pas?
Methinks that has not worked out too well thus far N'esy Pas?
Roland Godin
@Jonathan Berry
Retail cost of 49 mla give or take 25,000,000$, no résumé needed to apply and no job performance evalution...et voilà.
Retail cost of 49 mla give or take 25,000,000$, no résumé needed to apply and no job performance evalution...et voilà.
Marc Martin
@David R. Amos
It did not ? It created over 10 000 jobs currently here in NB.
It did not ? It created over 10 000 jobs currently here in NB.
Michel Martin
@Jonathan Berry So New
Brunswick should not unnovate or grow towards a better future by
attracting young people? You have no idea of the demographics, economic
strategies or benefits in New Brunswick from having both official
languages. Our largest industries are based upon it. It helps our growth
in multiple countries/market.
I find your opinion short sighted and with no facts to support them.
I find your opinion short sighted and with no facts to support them.
Nicolas Krinis
@Michel Martin As much as it
may hurt some francophones (I am fully bilingual btw), French, for the
exception of Quebec, is a dying language. Sad but true. Stop with the
segregation. Same schools, buses etc.. Separating the 2 does not promote
harmony.
David R. Amos
@Marc Martin "It created over 10 000 jobs currently here in NB."
Methinks the only folks that got those jobs were bilingual such as yourself N'esy Pas?
Methinks the only folks that got those jobs were bilingual such as yourself N'esy Pas?
daryl doucette
The SANB and other
francophone groups are unusually quiet so far today re this wonderful
decision by Premier Higgs to cancel the colossal waste of tax payers
money, the " Francophonie Games". .. probably gathered in the " War
Room" at the U de M pondering the right way to sue the government of
New Brunswick again over some imaginary perceived " injustice" against
the french minority here in New Brunswick......wait and see!
David R. Amos
@daryl doucette Scroll down
Roland Godin
@daryl doucette
Whatever the cost your discours seems stalled on whatever is in one of the langue officielle, the majority and in both official languages are concerned, comme moi, about the cost...et voilà.
Whatever the cost your discours seems stalled on whatever is in one of the langue officielle, the majority and in both official languages are concerned, comme moi, about the cost...et voilà.
daryl doucette
@Roland Godin HUH?
Marc Martin
@daryl doucette
Higgs should have renamed it the Anglo Games then we would have heard crickets....
Higgs should have renamed it the Anglo Games then we would have heard crickets....
Emery Hyslop-Margison
@Marc Martin Not true Marc.
As much as some federal politicians would like to make this a language
issue it's not - it's a fiscal issue.
Seamus O'hern
@Marc Martin ....sad little fella aren't ya?
Claude DeRoche
The Irving Boy hates federal money first highway 11 and then this.
Moncton got a "real" airport built with the Congrès Mondial Acadien.
Next he will return $3 Billion in equalization transfers to Ottawa
if New Brunswickers refuse fracking!
That's called blackmail!
Moncton got a "real" airport built with the Congrès Mondial Acadien.
Next he will return $3 Billion in equalization transfers to Ottawa
if New Brunswickers refuse fracking!
That's called blackmail!
David R. Amos
@Claude DeRoche You appear to be bitter about something
Bob Smith
@Claude DeRoche So are we
supposed to cut services in health, education and other services in the
entire province for a two week athletic festival? Gallant and the
Liberals knew this event was going to balloon cost wise after winning on
a lowball bid. They hid the facts until after the election and try to
pretend to be innocent on the fiasco. It's called a quagmire and
cancelling it was the only thing Higgs could do.
Cleve Gallant
@Claude DeRoche The anglos
has been blackmailed by the SANB for years now ,So how does it feel to
be on the receiving end for once Besides what you stated about Higgs
isn’t true, He is only doing what he thinks is best for our province
which is more what i can say for Gallant and his cronies!!!
Marc Martin
@Claude DeRoche
*Next he will return $3 Billion in equalization transfers to Ottawa
if New Brunswickers refuse fracking! *
And this is why he was a bad minister of finance when he was 4 years, same old same old...
*Next he will return $3 Billion in equalization transfers to Ottawa
if New Brunswickers refuse fracking! *
And this is why he was a bad minister of finance when he was 4 years, same old same old...
Seamus O'hern
@Marc Martin .....truth hurts huh?
Karl Dore
As much as I would like to see this international event hosted in NB, we simply cannot afford it. Period.
David R. Amos
@Karl Dore Methinks nobody with argue you N'esy Pas?
Eric Plexe
“Auditor general remains concerned about New Brunswick’s net debt and other financial matters” - https://www.agnb-vgnb.ca/content/agnb-vgnb/en/media/releases/renderer.2019.01.0015.html
Chantal LeBouthi
@Eric Plexe
Been like that for the past 20 years
Been like that for the past 20 years
Albert Wade
@Chantal LeBouthi that's a lie. The debt had grown exponentially.
David R. Amos
@Eric Plexe We all are
Emery Hyslop-Margison
Congratulations Blaine! It's
so refreshing to see a premier in NB make decisions based on reason and
fiscal responsibility rather than politics. Keep making these type of
decisions and your support among both linguistic communities will only
increase. This decision points the judgement arrow toward your political
integrity.
David R. Amos
@Emery Hyslop-Margison "This decision points the judgement arrow toward your political integrity."
I strongly disagree
I strongly disagree
Chantal LeBouthi
The sad part of this fiasco
is if the committee would have done their jobs correctly and send a real
plan in the first place when they did the biting process. We wouldn’t
be in this mess
Bob Smith
@Chantal LeBouthi If they
submitted a real bid, they never would have been awarded the games in
the first place. They knew it, played games with the numbers (probably
aided by Gallant telling them that any increases afterwards will be no
big deal) and won the day. People want Higgs to take the fall on this
but this is all on Gallant and the Liberals...
David R. Amos
@Chantal LeBouthi True
Chantal LeBouthi
NB is a poor province and for
the past 20 years each consecutive government have put NB more in the
hole. In NB politic fiascos is what we get.
Bernard lord Conservative fiasco
Sham Graham liberals fiasco
David Alward Conservative fiasco
Brian Gallant liberals fiasco
Stay tune the next fiasco will be coming soon
Bernard lord Conservative fiasco
Sham Graham liberals fiasco
David Alward Conservative fiasco
Brian Gallant liberals fiasco
Stay tune the next fiasco will be coming soon
James Reed
@Chantal LeBouthi
Keep in mind Lord ran a surplus in 5 of his 7 years in office... after his first budget our net debt was 6.91 billion and 7 years later it was 6.68 billion, after 4 years of Graham it was 9.48.
Keep in mind Lord ran a surplus in 5 of his 7 years in office... after his first budget our net debt was 6.91 billion and 7 years later it was 6.68 billion, after 4 years of Graham it was 9.48.
David R. Amos
@Chantal LeBouthi "Stay tune the next fiasco will be coming soon"
Methinks now is the winter of our discontent N'esy Pas?
Methinks now is the winter of our discontent N'esy Pas?
Nicolas Krinis
@James Reed Common theme. The libs put us in deep debt and the conservatives mop up the mess. Will we ever learn pour l'amour...
Luke Armstrong
Good move Premier Higgs.
David R. Amos
@Luke Armstrong It was his only move
Marc Martin
Take these games and rename them the *Commonwealth games* and 99% of the people on these forum are against it...Sad but true.
Albert Wade
@Marc Martin Canada as a
country pays for those games why didn't Trudeau pay more. The reason
being he wants to destabilize the present NB gov to help put liberals
back in power.
Bill Harrison
@Albert Wade Trudeau will also use the cancellation of the Games to claim Conservatives are anti- francophone!
David R. Amos
@Albert Wade "The reason being he wants to destabilize the present NB gov to help put liberals back in power."
Methinks that is the nature of the wicked games they play with our taxpayer funds N'esy Pas?
Methinks that is the nature of the wicked games they play with our taxpayer funds N'esy Pas?
David R. Amos
@Bill Harrison Mais Oui
Jim Reid
@Marc Martin wrong
Seamus O'hern
@Marc Martin .....You are Sad......so true.
Marguerite Deschamps
Over 300 comments and counting... llol!
Harold Benson
@Marguerite Deschamps Keyboard is worn out.
Content disabled.
David R. Amos
@Harold Benson Methinks Sam would agree that the tally of disabled comments is not one bit funny N'esy Pas?
David R. Amos
@Marguerite Deschamps Methinks these are the comments that counted N'esy Pas?
"People's Alliance Leader Kris Austin, wheose party is supporting the PC minority government in the legislature, said Higgs made the right decision.
Austin also said that, as a federal taxpayer, he was glad Ottawa opted not to bail out the event.
"I'd much rather see federal money going to things that are needed in New Brunswick and I don't see Games as one of them."
Despite the polarized reactions, Higgs said he didn't think his decision would contribute to linguistic divisions."
Harold Benson
Okay, so now that that is
cancelled, Foire Brayonne is going to take a kick at the funding can.
Obviously there is 17 million sitting somewhere waiting to be pilfered.
David R. Amos
@Harold Benson YUP
Mark Thibodeau
@Harold Benson Foire Brayonne
is probably the best, most vibrant, most fun and culturally relevant
festival in all of NB, regardless of language. It's been held since 1979
to great success. What's your problem with it?
Lyle Craver
Costs have risen 10-fold in the last 3 games. With no firm cap on costs as a political leader I'd be nervous too.
David R. Amos
@Lyle Craver Methinks somebody is nervous in light of the fact that they budgeted 10 million dollars for security N'esy Pas?
Greg Windsor
A Premier who is finally
standing for what is right .... saving ALL N. B. taxpayers millions of
dollars, thank-you Premier Higgs I am truly saddened that Dominic
LeBlanc and Justin Trudeau are turning this into a language issue ...
dividing our province even more than it is now ....shame on them
David R. Amos
@Greg Windsor "Dominic
LeBlanc and Justin Trudeau are turning this into a language issue ...
dividing our province even more than it is now ....shame on them"
YUP
YUP
Edward Katz
It's good to see New
Brunswick is following Calgary's Olympics rejection action because this
is precisely what should be done whenever these types of events can't
control costs. These games are strictly minor league and can't justify
any extravagances, and if there's such a demand for them, let's see how
fast some other members of the Francophonie pick them up, especially
when they contemplate the price tag. The reality is that unless costs
for these events can be strictly kept reasonable they, along with the
Olympics, Pan-Am Games, and the like, should be terminated entirely.
David R. Amos
@Edward Katz I agree
André Bérubé
Prime Minister Trudeau calls
this decision a 'shame for Francophone communities'. What on earth is
he talking about? New Brunswick cannot afford the huge costs of
hosting these games. Mr. Trudeau should also realize that several
members of the Francophonie do not even have French as a national or
official language: Egpt, Lebanon, Armenia, Vietnam, Tunisia, Laos,
Cyprus, Ghana, Mauritania, Greece and the list goes on and on.
Francophone countries? Give me a break! As far as I am concerned, New
Brunswick should also get out of the Francophonie because we don't
share the language and the values of too many of the countries that
belong to that organization. As a francophone from New Brunswick, I
fully support Premier HIggs decision.
David R. Amos
@André Bérubé "Prime Minister
Trudeau calls this decision a 'shame for Francophone communities'. What
on earth is he talking about?"
Methinks even he does not know what he is talking about most of the time N'esy Pas?
Methinks even he does not know what he is talking about most of the time N'esy Pas?
Brian Hughes
Premier Higgs absolutely made
the right decision. Besides the actual games, another kind of game is
played in ridiculously low balling the costs in order to get public
support and then trying to extort governments into paying the vastly
inflated actual costs. Higgs rightfully slew this serpent. The federal
Liberals have soiled themselves in trying to suggest that Higgs made
the wrong decision and have revealed hypocrisy and fiscal stupidity in
their sordid political gaming.
David R. Amos
@Brian Hughes Welcome to the Circus
Marguerite Deschamps
@David R. Amos; and you're the centre of attraction:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KVpWU0t8cGc
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KVpWU0t8cGc
David R. Amos
Chris McNee
This is the first common
sense decision by a NB premier since? Good on you Mr Higgs, I’m all for
bilingualism, but not rediculous debt. A few people are commenting that
this will hurt NB business? Maybe it will also show that this province
isn’t making poor financial decisions, as they have done in the past
David R. Amos
@Chris McNee Nope my
favourite "common sense decision" was stopping the refurbishment of the
Centennial Building in Fat Fred City for the benefit of greedy lawyers
and judges
Glen Cosby
N.B. voted in the same crap that Ontario did,,,, the conservatives do not care about French
Dan Armitage
@Glen Cosby pathetic really pathetic
David R. Amos
@Dan Armitage Who is pathetic?
Lou Bell
Common sense prevails , although we know what the phrase means to Mr. Arseneau and his heroes from the past .
David R. Amos
@Lou Bell Methinks Mr. Arseneau claimed to not know what common sense was N'esy Pas?
Content disabled.
David R. Amos
@Lou Bell Methinks I should
ask if you were I how you would reply to such comments? Need I say Mr
Higgs knows that I am never surprised to see my responses blocked N'esy
Pas?
Rob Mason said
If you want people to take you seriously speak a little more coherently.
Bill Carruthers said
"I hope you hadn't planned on speaking like that if you had of got elected."
Marc Martin said
"We all know your jealous they didnt ask you to run for Liberals Davis."
"For you every French people who disagree with you are SANB minions"
Michael durant
The blame is with the organizing committee and their attempt to pull a fast one.
David R. Amos
@Michael durant Methinks many would agree that the buck stops with Trudeau and Gallant N'esy Pas?
Dan Armitage
Heres an idea why not have
all entries pay their share so that whoever is elected to host the games
actually benefits from hosting the games. You can be guaranteed they'd
never have happened in New Brunswick if that was the case. They refused
the Olympics in Calgary (smart move by the way) and for what reason
MONEY same as why we will not be holding these way over inflated games
here. Well done Higgs keep up the good work not wasting money we don't
have!
David R. Amos
@Dan Armitage Methinks Higgs
had no choice if he didn't do it his mandate would crumble without the
PANB support. Now he runs the risk of losing his French Lieutenant Mr
Gauvin if too many SANB people are indignant N'esy Pas?
David R. Amos
Methinks folks should tune into CBC Info Morning in Fat Fred City right now N'esy Pas?
David R. Amos
@David R. Amos Did anyone hear Minister Joly's sad lament?
David R. Amos
@David R. Amos Go Figure
The Government of Canada is seeking independent appointments that are based on merit
GATINEAU, QC, June 20, 2017 /CNW/ - The Government of Canada is committed to open and transparent processes for selecting appointees, to help strengthen trust in Canada's democracy and ensure the integrity of its public institutions. Today, the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage, announced the creation of an advisory committee for appointments to the CBC/Radio-Canada Board of Directors.
This independent advisory committee will have a mandate to lead the selection process for the CBC/Radio-Canada Board of Directors. It will present its recommendations for qualified candidates to the Minister.
This independent, non-partisan committee is made up of experts in broadcasting and digital technology, and representatives of cultural sectors from across Canada. Indigenous Peoples, official-language communities and youth are also represented.
The committee will be chaired by Tom Clark from Ontario. Mr. Clark has worked in Canadian television news for the past 45 years.
The Government of Canada is seeking independent appointments that are based on merit
GATINEAU, QC, June 20, 2017 /CNW/ - The Government of Canada is committed to open and transparent processes for selecting appointees, to help strengthen trust in Canada's democracy and ensure the integrity of its public institutions. Today, the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage, announced the creation of an advisory committee for appointments to the CBC/Radio-Canada Board of Directors.
This independent advisory committee will have a mandate to lead the selection process for the CBC/Radio-Canada Board of Directors. It will present its recommendations for qualified candidates to the Minister.
This independent, non-partisan committee is made up of experts in broadcasting and digital technology, and representatives of cultural sectors from across Canada. Indigenous Peoples, official-language communities and youth are also represented.
The committee will be chaired by Tom Clark from Ontario. Mr. Clark has worked in Canadian television news for the past 45 years.
David R. Amos
@David R. Amos Please notice Éric Larocque was appointed
The following people are also appointed to the committee:
Prem Gill (British Columbia) started her career in the television and broadcasting industry. She has more than 20 years' experience in digital media, content creation and entertainment.
Carolyn Warren (Alberta) is a leader in the Canadian cultural sector and has experience with art and broadcasting institutions.
Janelle Wookey (Manitoba), is a Francophone Métis woman from the Prairies and an award-winning artist who works as an independent director and producer in Winnipeg.
Colm Feore, O.C. (Ontario) is a well-known theatre, film and television actor.
Marc Beaudet (Quebec) is a pioneer in the digital content industry in Quebec. He is president and CEO of Turbulent, a company that develops broadcasting platforms.
Monique Savoie (Quebec) is a digital visionary. In 1996, she created the Société des arts technologiques, a creative Montréal space dedicated to technological development.
Alanis Obomsawin, O.C., G.O.Q., C.A.L.Q. (Quebec) is a member of the Abenaki Nation and one of the most distinguished documentary filmmakers in Canada. For more than 40 years, she has been producing films at the National Film Board of Canada that tell about the lives and concerns of First Nations and deal with issues that are important to everyone.
Éric Larocque (New Brunswick) is active in projects related to Acadia and to his community, particularly those that deal with youth. He is director of the organizing committee for the 2021 Games of La Francophonie.
The following people are also appointed to the committee:
Prem Gill (British Columbia) started her career in the television and broadcasting industry. She has more than 20 years' experience in digital media, content creation and entertainment.
Carolyn Warren (Alberta) is a leader in the Canadian cultural sector and has experience with art and broadcasting institutions.
Janelle Wookey (Manitoba), is a Francophone Métis woman from the Prairies and an award-winning artist who works as an independent director and producer in Winnipeg.
Colm Feore, O.C. (Ontario) is a well-known theatre, film and television actor.
Marc Beaudet (Quebec) is a pioneer in the digital content industry in Quebec. He is president and CEO of Turbulent, a company that develops broadcasting platforms.
Monique Savoie (Quebec) is a digital visionary. In 1996, she created the Société des arts technologiques, a creative Montréal space dedicated to technological development.
Alanis Obomsawin, O.C., G.O.Q., C.A.L.Q. (Quebec) is a member of the Abenaki Nation and one of the most distinguished documentary filmmakers in Canada. For more than 40 years, she has been producing films at the National Film Board of Canada that tell about the lives and concerns of First Nations and deal with issues that are important to everyone.
Éric Larocque (New Brunswick) is active in projects related to Acadia and to his community, particularly those that deal with youth. He is director of the organizing committee for the 2021 Games of La Francophonie.
David R. Amos
@David R. Amos continued
The advisory committee will provide the Minister with the names of qualified candidates for each vacant position, as well as supplementary qualified candidates to create a pool to fill posts in the future.
As the digital shift brings many changes in its wake, the public broadcaster continues to play a crucial role in providing us with information and entertainment, as well as helping guide the next generation. As a Crown corporation in the Canadian Heritage portfolio, CBC/Radio‑Canada is an organization that is independent from the government and responsible for its own day-to-day activities.
Quotes
"Our government firmly believes in the importance of our national public broadcaster, CBC/Radio‑Canada. I am pleased to establish this independent advisory committee composed of experts in broadcasting, digital technology and culture, who reflect Canada's diversity. This new committee will recommend qualified candidates for a selection process that is open, transparent and based on merit."
—The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage
Quick Facts
Under the Broadcasting Act, CBC/Radio‑Canada's Board of Directors is composed of 12 directors, including a chair and a president/CEO, appointed by the Governor in Council during good behavior for a maximum period of five years.
The selection processes for the positions of chair, president/CEO, and part-time directors are posted on the Governor in Council's website.
In 2016, the Government of Canada adopted a new approach that requires a selection process be initiated for full-time and part-time positions. Those interested can apply online.
The advisory committee will provide the Minister with the names of qualified candidates for each vacant position, as well as supplementary qualified candidates to create a pool to fill posts in the future.
As the digital shift brings many changes in its wake, the public broadcaster continues to play a crucial role in providing us with information and entertainment, as well as helping guide the next generation. As a Crown corporation in the Canadian Heritage portfolio, CBC/Radio‑Canada is an organization that is independent from the government and responsible for its own day-to-day activities.
Quotes
"Our government firmly believes in the importance of our national public broadcaster, CBC/Radio‑Canada. I am pleased to establish this independent advisory committee composed of experts in broadcasting, digital technology and culture, who reflect Canada's diversity. This new committee will recommend qualified candidates for a selection process that is open, transparent and based on merit."
—The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage
Quick Facts
Under the Broadcasting Act, CBC/Radio‑Canada's Board of Directors is composed of 12 directors, including a chair and a president/CEO, appointed by the Governor in Council during good behavior for a maximum period of five years.
The selection processes for the positions of chair, president/CEO, and part-time directors are posted on the Governor in Council's website.
In 2016, the Government of Canada adopted a new approach that requires a selection process be initiated for full-time and part-time positions. Those interested can apply online.
Roger Richard
@David R. Amos Oh!
David R. Amos
@Roger Richard Interesting N'esy Pas?
David R. Amos
@Roger Richard Methinks a lot
of folks should wonder who they were gonna hire for security that came
with a 10 million price tag when we already pay the RCMP far too much
money to do such things ala Fracking protests in Kent County N'esy Pas?
@David R. Amos It is crazy out there. Lots of snobbish people...
Roger Richard
@David R. Amos ... and overplayed.
Roger Richard
@David R. Amos sorry... overpaid.
David R. Amos
@Roger Richard YUP
David R. Amos
@Roger Richard "It is crazy out there. Lots of snobbish people.and overplayed."
Methinks that is the Nature of a Proper Circus N'esy Pas?
Methinks that is the Nature of a Proper Circus N'esy Pas?
Roger Richard
@David R. Amos Maybe the word « overplayed » was better.
David R. Amos
Methinks Mr Higgs may enjoy a little Deja Vu and find it as interesting as I that Sequin just quoted what the former PANB dude Randall Leavitt had to say about this topic within his Twitter account N'esy Pas?
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/people-s-alliance-welcome-unhappy-progressive-conservative-member-1.4131613
"Randall Leavitt
liberals and conservatives have taken us to $14billion financial cliffs, both practice patronage appointments, have had numerous scandals, love corporate handouts and mismanagement. Those who continue to vote for them are getting something majority of NBers are not. The People Alliance had an intensive platform last election and have laid some pretty major planks already for the next. Those who blindly give their votes will continue to do so to get same old results. The People's Alliance is an option for any, especially for those who don't vote to finally be heard and take part in a Democratic Party."
Nicolas Krinis
Good decision. I still cannot
understand how games of this size, with hardly any construction and
infrastructure, can cost close to $200M.
David R. Amos
@Nicolas Krinis Methinks CBC just reported that the latest rendition was 62 million N'esy Pas?
"The organizing committee said in a letter earlier this week that it had reduced the cost to $62 million and called on the province to continue discussing how to rescue the Games."
"The organizing committee said in a letter earlier this week that it had reduced the cost to $62 million and called on the province to continue discussing how to rescue the Games."
Nicolas Krinis
@David R. Amos Even $5M would have been too much money for a province in the fiscal shape NB finds itself in.
David R. Amos
@Nicolas Krinis Methinks the 10 million allotted for security alone was insanely greedy N'esy Pas?
Roger Richard
We have so much problems in NB. We do not need these games.
David R. Amos
@Roger Richard Oh So True I truly hope that you run against Mr Arseneau again
"Green Party MLA Kevin Arseneau said the Tories could have increase their commitment "a little bit" to demonstrate a willingness to save the Games.
"The message that Higgs just gave New Brunswickers is that we're too small to do big things here," Arseneau said."
"Green Party MLA Kevin Arseneau said the Tories could have increase their commitment "a little bit" to demonstrate a willingness to save the Games.
"The message that Higgs just gave New Brunswickers is that we're too small to do big things here," Arseneau said."
Roger Richard
@David R. Amos I think our mayor in St-Louis is being courted by the Liberal Party. So I will not need to do it again.
David R. Amos
@Roger Richard Methinks you
should not care that a different liberal may be running next time They
run in every riding in every election and they all follow the same party
line N'esy Pas?
Roger Richard
@David R. Amos You are right. An independent candidate would be a better choice. Maybe she would consider that.
David R. Amos
@Roger Richard So should you
David R. Amos
Methinks its rather
interesting to hear Mr Sequin defend the French Lieutenant Gauvin to
Professor Mario Levesque without Gauvin even bothering to speak to CBC
about this topic N'esy Pas?
David R. Amos
Methinks Minister Duncan is a wonderful actor for this wicked circus N'esy Pas?
David R. Amos
@David R. Amos Methinks we should all be wondering why Dominic Leblanc is not talking on CBC today N'esy Pas?
David R. Amos
@David R. Amos Oh My My
Methinks that nobody of any import pertaining to this topic wanted to
talk to Seguin this morning N'esy Pas?
Seamus O'hern
@David R. Amos ....sic em Dave....you're my favorite N.B.er.....somebody that gives a hoot.
Harold Benson
In the key of G on this one.
David R. Amos
@Harold Benson Methinks that
Sam would agree that Mr Higgs just proved the Golden Rule once again.
"He with the Gold Makes the Rules" N'esy Pas?
Robert Morrell
I listened to the CBC
interview with Federal Sports Minister Kristy Duncan this morning
pertaining to New Brunswick's Premier Blaine Higgs' cancellation of the
Francophone Games. Her comments totally lacked common sense and focused
on avoiding reality. Her calling in life is not politics, maybe an
anchor for a ship or a BC Pine would be more to her intelligence level.
New Brunswick cancels plan to host 2021 Francophonie Games
'None of these decisions were easy,' says New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs
After weeks of sorting through
ballooning costs anticipated for the 2021 Francophonie Games, New
Brunswick's Progressive Conservative government has decided to cancel
its plan to host the international event.
"We understand this is a very difficult decision for the individuals who wanted the games to move forward," Premier Blaine Higgs said.
Higgs announced the fate of the 2021 Francophonie Games at a news conference in Fredericton on Wednesday morning, describing the costs of the sports event a "very steep climb."
"None of these decisions were easy."
Higgs said the high cost of the Games makes it impossible when the provincial government is making tough spending decisions. The premier said his government will name a representative to begin the cancellation process.
He said there will be associated costs with cancelling the event. So far, the province has spent $2.65 million on the event.
Deputy
Premier Robert Gauvin previously set a Jan. 30 deadline for the federal
government and the province to "develop funding options" to save the
troubled event.
It appeared, however, an impasse had been reached with neither side budging from their initial funding commitments to cover the soaring price tag.
But on the day before the deadline, there were signs the Games had not been lost.
As of late, the outlook for the Games has been grim.
The cost of hosting the Games ballooned last year to $130 million from the $17-million figure used in the original 2016 bid. A revised estimate put the potential cost at $80 million.
Premier Blaine Higgs repeatedly said the province would not pay more than its initial $10-million commitment and called on Ottawa to cover the balance. Federal cabinet ministers and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau maintained Ottawa would not shift from its policy to match provincial investment dollar for dollar.
"There has to be a model that works financially," Higgs said.
Last week, Higgs suggested the fate of the Games was essentially sealed.
Higgs
said the provincial government will name a representative to the
organizing committee to begin the cancellation process for the 2021
Francophonie Games. (Jonathan Hayward/Canadian Press)
"Given what [Trudeau] said … given what I'm saying, it seems like the outcome is obvious," Higgs told reporters last Thursday.
But hours before the province's deadline, Radio-Canada reported the organizing committee for the Moncton-Dieppe Games submitted a new potential cost estimate of $62 million.
Also Tuesday, Federal Sports Minister Kirsty Duncan struck an upbeat tone on the state of talks with the province. In a statement, Duncan said provincial officials had "finally come to the table to work collaboratively with us to find solutions that reduce the cost of hosting the games and include in-kind contributions."
Dieppe Mayor Yvon Lapierre also announced the city would increase its contribution, if the money would be directed to legacy projects for the municipality.
New Brunswick was selected to host the ninth edition of the Francophonie Games in 2016. The games are organized by La Francophonie, an international organization of 58 governments with connections to the French language.
"We understand this is a very difficult decision for the individuals who wanted the games to move forward," Premier Blaine Higgs said.
Higgs announced the fate of the 2021 Francophonie Games at a news conference in Fredericton on Wednesday morning, describing the costs of the sports event a "very steep climb."
"None of these decisions were easy."
Higgs said the high cost of the Games makes it impossible when the provincial government is making tough spending decisions. The premier said his government will name a representative to begin the cancellation process.
He said there will be associated costs with cancelling the event. So far, the province has spent $2.65 million on the event.
HIGGS: NB withdrawing from Francophonie Games
It appeared, however, an impasse had been reached with neither side budging from their initial funding commitments to cover the soaring price tag.
But on the day before the deadline, there were signs the Games had not been lost.
- Officials strike upbeat tone for Francophonie Games hours before deadline
- Higgs thinks Francophonie Games are doomed as province, Ottawa reach impasse
- If the Francophonie Games are cancelled, New Brunswick could still have to pay
Changing tones and costs
As of late, the outlook for the Games has been grim.
The cost of hosting the Games ballooned last year to $130 million from the $17-million figure used in the original 2016 bid. A revised estimate put the potential cost at $80 million.
Premier Blaine Higgs repeatedly said the province would not pay more than its initial $10-million commitment and called on Ottawa to cover the balance. Federal cabinet ministers and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau maintained Ottawa would not shift from its policy to match provincial investment dollar for dollar.
"There has to be a model that works financially," Higgs said.
Last week, Higgs suggested the fate of the Games was essentially sealed.
But hours before the province's deadline, Radio-Canada reported the organizing committee for the Moncton-Dieppe Games submitted a new potential cost estimate of $62 million.
Also Tuesday, Federal Sports Minister Kirsty Duncan struck an upbeat tone on the state of talks with the province. In a statement, Duncan said provincial officials had "finally come to the table to work collaboratively with us to find solutions that reduce the cost of hosting the games and include in-kind contributions."
Dieppe Mayor Yvon Lapierre also announced the city would increase its contribution, if the money would be directed to legacy projects for the municipality.
New Brunswick was selected to host the ninth edition of the Francophonie Games in 2016. The games are organized by La Francophonie, an international organization of 58 governments with connections to the French language.
With files from Elizabeth Fraser and Jacques Poitras
CBC's Journalistic Standards and Practices
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