NDP Leader Carole James said Tuesday that she received numerous calls from business owners who are afraid they will have to shut down and lay off staff during the Olympic Games. (CBC)

The provincial NDP released a memo Tuesday indicating that jobs at GM Place may be affected by the 2010 Olympic Games.

On Monday, the party leaked a memo stating that 200 workers at Hastings Park racetrack will temporarily lose their jobs during the Games.

NDP Leader Carole James said since the news first broke on Monday, she has received calls from people who are afraid their small businesses may be negatively affected by the Olympics.

"We've heard stories about BC Place, about GM Place, about other facilities that may be impacted," said James. "People don't trust this government to come clean on what's really going on with the Olympics."

B.C. Finance Minister Colin Hansen accused the NDP leader of spreading fear among employees, and added he is unaware of any planned layoffs for GM Place employees.

"Carole James is spreading malicious rumours, because when you have the leader of the Opposition going out and speculating that people are going to be laid off and lose their jobs that is the height of irresponsibility," said Hansen. "As I understand it, no employees of GM Place are going to be laid off because of the Olympics."

On Monday, James leaked a memo indicating Hastings Park racecourse plans to lay off 200 staff during the 2010 Games because of Olympic security concerns.

In the memo, senior management said the park would like to remain open during the festivities, but is being forced to close by the 2010 Olympic organizing committee, known as VANOC, because it's located in a restricted area.

Management of Hastings Park said Monday that they are working with Olympic organizers to find souvenir or food and beverage sales jobs for their staff at Olympic sites.