TORONTO - A survey of Southern Ontario residents conducted over the weekend shows 69 percent support the addition of a new NHL franchise to the region (the number rises to 77% among males). The majority (67%) are also calling for existing Canadian NHL teams to endorse the idea and set aside their concerns about competition. The survey was sponsored by Environics Communications and released to the public.

"The public is calling for a coalition of Canadian interests ahead of competitive interests," said Bruce MacLellan, President of Environics Communications. "The challenge is for aspiring franchise owners to translate the support of Ontario's 13 million citizens into the votes of 30 governors and owners. The forum is going to shift from the court of public opinion or court of law to the court of decision."

Almost a majority said the Government of Canada should intervene in support of another southern Ontario franchise as an economic stimulus (47% versus 39%).

The survey of 200 southern Ontario residents was conducted by Research House between May 9 and May 11.