Premier Scott Moe backs CFL for Federal emergency funding

Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe has backed the Canadian Football Leagues’ (CFL) call for financial support by the federal government. 

Currently, the CFL is asking the federal government for $150 million, $30 million is for current losses caused by COVID19, and the other $120 million to make up for income shortfalls over the rest of the season, including the possibility of a short season, or low stadium attendance. 

Premier Moe said, “Without getting into details, I think it’s fair to say that Saskatchewan would be supportive of those conversations, and we’ll see where this goes. The CFL is in a challenging position, and this is a question for all Canadians.”

The Saskatchewan Rough Riders have yet to approach the provincial government for financial support, but Saskatchewan’s recent history with helping out the team

Moe explained, “as you know, the provincial government — as well as the municipal government — has participated with this organization in previous years not only in hosting Grey Cup celebrations but in the construction of our stadium here in Regina.”

Moe said regarding the Rough Riders team, “Not only are they a strong organization both on and off the field but they need a strong league to participate in,”

Right now it looks like the football season will be delayed this year with training camps already being delayed, as they were supposed to open at the beginning of May. 

The current schedule sees the CFL opening around early July, but some provinces would not have begun to allow for large gatherings until August, throwing the viability of the preliminary schedule into question.

Aid may be on its way as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau confirmed that the federal government was having discussions with the CFL about providing the $150 million financial package.