Bergen urged to set up free World Cup screen

Bergen’s Labour Party is calling on the city council to provide a free large screen on Torgallmenningen for Norway’s World Cup quarter-final against England, Dagbladet reports.

“Torgallmenningen is clearly a gathering point for Bergen’s residents in these situations,” said Geir Steinar Dale, deputy leader of the Labour Party’s city council group. “We expect a big screen in Bergen now. Anything else would simply be embarrassing.”

The demand follows Oslo’s decision to install a free public screen at Rådhusplassen. Former Bergen mayor Trude Drevland had earlier called it “tragic” if Bergen failed to match Oslo’s offer.

Bergen’s current arrangement includes free screenings at Bergen Kino, Fana Arena, Fana Stadion, and Travparken in Åsane. However, Labour insists a central, public screen is necessary.

Reidar Digranes (Sp), the city councillor for business, culture, and sports, confirmed efforts are underway to meet the demand. “We are working on alternatives and will provide more information as soon as possible,” he said via advisor Fredrik Mettälä.