Hockey and politics collide for French debate
Bloc Québécois Leader Yves François-Blanchet is asked about the Montreal Canadiens playing a game that could clinch them a playoff spot the same evening as the French-language federal election debate. In 2011, then Bloc Québécois leader Gilles Duceppe led the charge to reschedule the French-language debate to avoid conflict with a Canadiens-Bruins playoff game. Blanchet said he would get in touch with the Leaders’ Debates Commission to float the idea rescheduling this year’s debate, too.
The French-language leaders’ debate is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET tomorrow, but the Montreal Canadiens’ playoff hopes could be on the line at the same time.
Back in 2011, the French-language debate was rescheduled to avoid a Canadiens-Bruins playoff game. Gilles Duceppe, leader of the Bloc Québécois at the time, led the charge.
Current Bloc Leader Yves-François Blanchet was asked about this today and he was surprised that Duceppe’s request in 2011 was successful.
“I didn’t know that,” Blanchet said. “I’ll reflect on that, and we’ll call the [Leaders’ Debates Commission] and see what they think of that idea.”
A couple of things to note: Duceppe’s request happened several days in advance, and he had the support of other parties in his efforts. That’s not the case this time.
The game also might not matter. If the Columbus Blue Jackets, who are chasing the Habs for that playoff spot, lose tonight against Philadelphia, the Habs clinch a playoff spot. Then tomorrow’s game becomes far less important.
Lastly, I have to add: my beloved Ottawa Senators have a game Thursday night, in conflict with the English-language debate. But they clinched a playoff spot last week so I don’t have to deal with any of that stress (sorry Habs fans).
About The Author
