With one announcement, the BC NDP Government appear to have ended Victoria’s bid for the 2022 Commonwealth Games in its tracks.
Finance Minister Carole James issued a statement on August 24, saying the provincial government can’t commit to supporting the bid.
“While we appreciate the energy and passion of the bid committee, we cannot make a commitment to support the bid through direct funding, nor can we provide a financial shortfall guarantee,” the statement read.
“Too many details remain unknown”
The government’s main issue with the bid appeared to be a lack of specifics. James cited numerous unknown costs.
“We have analyzed the bid committee’s work and see that too many details remain unknown to fully understand the costs, obligations and risks associated with hosting such a large-scale event,” she continued.
“Those include commitments from the federal government and local governments, commitments on revenues from the Games, finalized venue locations, costs for security and emergency response, as well as any added costs to the Province, like transit, transportation infrastructure and health services that would come with the influx of athletes, coaches, dignitaries and visitors.
Victoria Could Potentially Bid For The 2030 Games
Though James was firm in her decision not to fund the 2022 Games, she left the door open for hosting in the future.
“The Commonwealth Games have a long history of promoting sport and inspiring communities,” the statement read. “I expect B.C. communities will bid for future Games, such as the 100th anniversary in 2030. The Province will happily consider those proposals when there is more time to do the work necessary to protect B.C. taxpayers from financial uncertainty.”
“I expect B.C. communities will bid for future Games, such as the 100th anniversary in 2030. The Province will happily consider those proposals when there is more time to do the work necessary to protect B.C. taxpayers from financial uncertainty.”
