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August 30, 2004
by Mark Brender, Senior Writer
The Hockey News
Jim Boone knows his proposal is highly unlikely even to be considered by the
powers that be, let alone have much chance of success.
He also knows the public path the powers that be have set themselves is
highly unlikely to result in a season being played, so what the heck.
As co-founder of the 22,000-member NHL Fans' Association, based in Ottawa,
Boone sent a letter to NHL commissioner Gary Bettman and NHL Players'
Association executive director Bob Goodenow recommending the two sides take
their CBA negotiations to a third-party mediator.
The NHLFA would even select the mediator if the union and the league
couldn't agree on a suitable candidate.
"Our fear," the letter reads, "is the game we love will be spoiled by both
your organizations' resolute stances to win at all costs. Please remember
that you both have an obligation to keep 'the game' strong for fans."
According to the NHLFA proposal, if an independent mediator can't help the
two sides work through their issues in a set period of time, his or her
powers would turn into those associated with a binding arbitrator, who would
then mandate terms of a new CBA "that does the most benefit to all parties,
including fans."
"If they truly care about the sport, I think they would opt into something
like this," said Boone, a web designer/communications consultant. "I'm not
holding out much hope that they're actually going to do it."
Realistic man, Jim Boone.
"While we appreciate the interest and concern," said Bill Daly, NHL
vice-president and chief legal officer, "the parties themselves are best
positioned to understand the current economics of the industry and to
negotiate effective ways to deal with our current challenges. Involving a
third party would not be constructive to the process."
And this from NHLPA senior director Ted Saskin: "The negotiation process is
well underway and both parties are engaged in regular discussions. That
said, the players want to play NHL hockey this season and are prepared to do
so until a new deal can be reached with the League. Unfortunately, the
League seems intent on depriving fans of hockey by triggering the owners'
lockout."
We'll take that as "no thanks."
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