More speakers…Minister James Moore goes on the record to gush over UFC

Meggs asks about betting and how they protect from fixed fights. Epstein answers that his bosses are in the casino business and are held to the highest legal standards. Meggs asks about amateur sport and financial support. Epstein says they are a very charitable organization, but they don’t get too involved in amateur sports because they don’t want to compromise other. Chow asks about moral standards and UFC’s arguments on fighting. Epstein says that regulation is where they started With the owners of Zuffa being from the gaming business. Morals and ethics are high with their athletes, and they are highly educated. Martial arts backgrounds are based on respect, honour and sportsmanship. Harvey Jones is the next speaker, VP for Northwest Sports (GM Place, CanucksM etc.). They like UFC. They think they are professional. He talks about the economic impact – 500 pary time staff, restaurants,hotels, etc. Many spectators come from outside of the province (up to one quarter. Indemnity is for EVERY event at GM Place…standard fare. We need to act now. Jang question: Canucks game, how different from UFC? Must look at security, alcohol management, crowd composition. Typical insurance for GM Place is $5 million. Louie question: insurance 5 million? That is what GM Place requires from promoter, but they have much more. What is insurer’s rating? Not sure. You use waivers for indemnity? Yes. Minister James Moore here to speak. Minister says federal government is entirely supportive of motion, sanctioning and hosting the event. This UFC event will be another in a 2010 full of global events coming to Vancouver. Moore went to one of the Montreal UFC events and says that all global city hosts have been through this kind of process. But Moore is absolutely gushing about what an opportunity this is. Gives a shoutout to GSP, a Canadian who he says is the biggest star in the world’s fastest growing sport. Moore says there is ABSOLUTELY no legal obstacles from the federal POV. Says pass the motion. Woodsworth asks who invited him. Moore says he invited himself. Woodsworth asks why Bill C-31 delayed. As usual blames it on the opposition. What is their opposition? Moore says ask them, but it has nothing to do with MMA. Deal says thank you for being here. Are you jealous there is no arena big enough in Port Moody? Anton awkwardly tells Moore to come again. Asks is they will woerk with City officials on this issue? Absolutely…cross-jurisdictional and so entirely appropriate. Reimer…Moore said that constituents overwhelmingly support. Reimer asks for polling data. Canada UFC’s biggest market per capita. Compared to arijuana use and Reimer jokingly asks whether they will move forward on that file. Reimer asks about the feds not proceeding on criminal prosecution in Montreal. Moore said feds don’t get involved in RCMP matters. Moore sits down after beating the MMA booster drum the loudest thus far.