Plans to replace Big O roof expected by end of 2013

As Montreal's Olympic Stadium roof continues to deteriorate, Quebecs tourism minister says he hopes to present a plan for its replacement in the next few weeks.

According to the Olympic Installations Board's 2012 annual report,the stadiums roof ripped a total of 1,240 times last year and repairs to the roof cost the board $316,000.

Minister of Tourism, Pascal Brub, said he expects the government will finalize its plans for a new roof by the end of 2013, but it could take several more years for the project to be completed.

The stadiums roof has been plagued with problems ever since it was first constructed.

The current membrane roof was installed by Birdair in 1998 at a cost of $37 million, but ongoing problems mean the stadium cant be used during the winter because of safety concerns.

Montreal Gazette columnist Bill Brownstein said he thinks its time to tear down the stadium.

"Enough is enough, I mean blow up the sucker. You cant even use it in the winter, parking is a problem, inside structurally there are problems galore," he said.

"The joke is on us after awhile. How long do we have to continue paying for all of this?"

But the minister said maintaining the historic building is important.

"Its like an icon for Montreal," Brub said.

The Quebec government is currently consulting with stakeholders on a number of factors regarding the new roof, including cost, utility and architecture.

But while the Big O may be a beloved part of Montreals skyline, Brownstein said it would be better for the city to cut its losses and move on.

"Sentiment can get in the way of pragmatism and I think at a certain point we just have to say this aint working."