Burke says aid is crucial for Canadian clubs

The general manager of the National Hockey League's Vancouver Canucks wants money from a government betting lottery to bolster the league's six Canadian teams. Otherwise, he thinks more clubs will head to the United States.

"We've already lost two teams," Brian Burke said today. "I think all the Canadian teams except Toronto will end up there if the government does nothing."

The federal and provincial governments have refused to give Canadian teams lottery money, an issue that could end up in court.

Quebec City and Winnipeg already have lost teams to the United States. The Calgary Flames said last week it must sell 14,000 season tickets or the franchise will be sold, possibly setting up a move to the US.

"We think it's grossly unfair that the governments of the various provinces think it's acceptable to take our schedule, take our results and generate fantastic sums of money and tell us we're not entitled to it," Burke said.

In January, the Ottawa Senators announced a plan involving tax breaks, contingent on participation by the provincial and municipal governments. That plan was quickly withdrawn after much public criticism.

"The average fan thought it was handouts for millionaire players and millionaire owners," Burke said. "I think the Canadian public understands the issue now."

The Canucks blame their financial losses on rising salaries paid in American funds, a weak Canadian dollar and high taxes. Burke does not see the Canucks threatening a move in the near future.

"We have never given an ultimatum or a deadline and we're not going to today," he said. "But it cannot continue. We'll be able to solve a large part of our problem ourselves. The long-term solution has to involve the governments of Canada."

Calgary owner Harley Hotchkiss said last week the Flames need to sell 14,000 season tickets by June 30 or the franchise will be put up for sale. The team had around 9,000 season-ticket holders last year.

The Flames also want the city of Calgary to lower operating expenses at the Saddledome. Several Calgary politicians have said the Flames should not expect any help from the city.

"If the city of Calgary's answer is 'We're not going to help,' at least help them pack," Burke said.