Canadian and Quebec politicians are criticizing the National Hockey League after Montreal Canadiens fans in the Gatineau region were banned from hosting a watch party at a local arena.
Organizers of the cancelled event said the NHL told them they were not allowed to proceed with their party last Saturday at the 4,000-seat Slush Puppie Centre because it is located within a territory where the Ottawa Senators have exclusive marketing rights.
The organizers say they also spoke to the Senators, who refused to help them organize a Habs party at an arena about 35 kilometers away from the Canadian Tire Centre.
Federal Transport Minister Steve MacKinnon, who represents Gatineau, told journalists the move was a serious mistake, noting many hockey fans in Gatineau are rooting for the Canadiens and deserve to come together to experience the playoff excitement.
The Quebec legislature unanimously adopted a motion calling on the NHL to reconsider its decision. The league did not immediately respond to a request for comment.