Special federal committee reviewing proposals from NHL, other leagues for safety: top doctor
Posted May 28, 2020 1:02 pm.
Last Updated May 28, 2020 1:09 pm.
VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) — When it comes to Canadian cities possibly becoming hubs for the NHL this summer, the federal health officer says proposals from sports leagues are being looked over right now.
Dr. Theresa Tam says protecting Canadians is still the key objective when considering if professional players will be allowed across the border.
On Canadian cities possibly becoming hockey hubs for the NHL, Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Theresa Tam says the proposals from sports leagues are being reviewed and they are looking at what guidance there will be to protect against any risk to the public. #cdnpoli #COVID19
— Cormac Mac Sweeney (@cmaconthehill) May 28, 2020
“So as with any resubmission of activities, be it sports or professional sports, we’re looking at what guidance needs to be in place to protect any potential risks to the Canadian population,” she explains. “So I think right now at the special advisory committee, we’re going to be looking at what the guidance is being laid out for a sports-related activity.”
Tam adds protocols would need to be in place before any sport considers starting again.
“Having said that, I do know that there are proposals of calls from these leagues, including the NHL, and those proposals are being reviewed in terms of whether they continue to keep Canadians safe,” Tam said.
RELATED: NHL won’t be exempt from provincial health orders, say B.C. officials
The concern is having teams cross the border when tight restrictions could be in place for a while.
When the league returns, fans wouldn’t be allowed in the rinks to watch, but players and management would flock to two hub cities, which are currently up for debate.
Vancouver, Edmonton and Toronto are the Canadian cities that have been shortlisted.
A sports insider expressed some doubt, however, about Vancouver being chosen as one of the hub cities given the current public health orders.
The league is expected to make a final decision next month.
