Serge Losique pays portion of back taxes so Montreal World Film Festival can take place

Serge Losique was taken to court in July 2018 by Revenue Quebec, which demanded he pay about $500,000 he and his festival owe in back taxes.

The beleaguered Montreal World Film Festival is expected to go ahead as planned after its founder paid Quebec's Revenue Department almost $33,000 in back taxes.

Revenu Quebec filed a motion in court Wednesday withdrawing an earlier attempt for an injunction to prevent the 42nd edition of the festival from taking place later this month.

Authorities have said festival founder Serge Losique owes up to $500,000 in back taxes.

Revenu Quebec spokesperson Genevieve Laurier said Losique's $32,800 means the film festival can legally pursue its activities.

For years the event has been under pressure after losing sponsors as well as significance in the international film community.

In 2016, many employees resigned, citing Losique's "incompetent leadership."

The Montreal World Film Festival is scheduled to open Aug. 23.