The debate with sports minister Conny Helder late Monday evening led to irritation and discomfort in the House of Representatives. While the debate about the problems at the Thialf ice stadium was still ongoing, Helder left for her flight to the World Cup in Qatar.
At that time, the House had already been talking about the sports budget for six hours and had yet to start the second term. But while answering questions about the ailing Thialf, sports minister Helder indicated that she still had four minutes because the plane to Qatar was waiting for her.
The SP, PvdA and PVV insisted that Helder would finish the debate. Precisely because she left for the World Cup in Qatar. The Chamber previously announced that it did not want the Netherlands to send representatives to the host country of the World Cup. A request that the cabinet ignored.
According to the minister, early departure was known in advance
SP Member of Parliament Michiel van Nispen threatened on Monday evening that “if the minister leaves this debate now, I don’t want her to come back, then we want a real minister of sports”. VVD MP Rudmer Heerema called it “unfortunate” but did stand up for the minister, because it often happens that debates are suspended due to time.
Minister Helder responded that it was known in advance that she could stay until 11:30 p.m. at the latest. Otherwise, the itinerary and preparations would be jeopardized. “You don’t think that’s important, but I do”, Helder responded to the angry MPs.
One of the topics discussed during the debate was the problems at the Thialf ice stadium. Due to rising energy costs, the existence of the stadium is at stake. According to the Thialf director, it is not even certain that the current professional skating season can be completed without compensation from the government.
Minister cannot ‘promise a blank check’
Sports minister Helder said “to do everything possible to keep the Thialf ice stadium in Heerenveen open” but she cannot promise a “blank cheque”. Helder promised to continue to consult intensively with Thialf and other parties involved in the coming weeks. “We’re going to get there one way or another.”
Helder said that she thinks the top sports center is really important for Dutch speed skating and international competition. She wants to give the House a definite answer before the Christmas recess at the latest. According to the SP and the PvdA, this is too late, because the energy contract expires early next year.
