Updated: Thu Mar. 06 2008 3:55:19 PM

toronto.ctv.ca

The 41 outdoor skating rinks in Toronto that closed last Sunday will remain closed for March Break.

City council voted late Wednesday night against reopening the artificial rinks, defeating a motion by Coun. Case Ootes, who wanted them open an extra two weeks because of the continued cold weather.

Parks staff said operating the rinks during the week would have cost more than $200,000.

However, eight of the city's 49 rinks will remain open during the March Break -- the same number as last year.

The rinks debate turned nasty at times, including when Ootes complained he did not receive support from the mayor's office for his plan.

Budget chief Shelley Carroll said Ootes was manipulating public opinion by implying fewer rinks would be open this year than last.

Council did, however, agree to have staff look at costs and opportunities to keep rinks open during the school break in future years.

With files from CTV Toronto's Naomi Parness