B.C. government not backing 2030 Olympic bid

The B.C. government is not supporting the First Nations-led bid to host the 2030 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Tourism, arts, culture and sport minister Lisa Beare said the province has been evaluating the potential bid for more than a year, and was aware of how exciting the idea of hosting the event is to athletes and sports fans.

“However, the province has the responsibility to weigh the benefits with the costs and possible risks of the project,” said Beare. “There are billions of dollars in direct costs, and potential guarantee and indemnity liability risks on this project that could jeopardize our government’s ability to address pressures facing British Columbians right now. Based on careful consideration, the Province is declining to support a bid.”

The four-billion-dollar bid involves eight First Nations communities, Vancouver, Whistler and the resort village of Sun Peaks near Kamloops.

Beare added planning and hosting an event as large as this requires significant attention and resources.

“We have existing commitments to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2025 Invictus Games. These world-class events will bring the international spotlight to British Columbia, as well as economic benefits to support the province’s tourism-sector recovery for the next decade and beyond.”

Beare said the NDP government is focused on expanding the services British Columbians need, while building a more secure future.

“While there are many competing priorities and challenges, we are putting people first by focusing on the cost of living, health care, housing, public safety and building a strong work force.”

The Lilwat, Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh Nations announced on Feb. 1 that they had signed an agreement with the City of Vancouver, the Resort Municipality of Whistler, the Canadian Olympic Committee and the Canadian Paralympic Committee to explore a bid.

It is the first Indigenous-led bid for an Olympic Games.