Hockey Nova Scotia will not send player transfer fees to Hockey Canada this season.
The national organization is facing scrutiny for its handling of sexual assault allegations, and the use of player funds to settle cases.
In a statement, Hockey N.S. says its values need to be reflected by Hockey Canada’s senior leadership, and change is needed at the highest levels of the game.
The move follows Ontario and Quebec, who also suspended transfer fees to the organization.
Many sponsors like Canadian Tire, Telus and Tim Hortons have completely backed away from the men’s national program, and will not sponsor the World Juniors in Halifax and Moncton this year.
Members of our board of directors have been closely monitoring the actions of Hockey Canada in recent months and have expressed concerns to the national governing body during this period of time.
In their latest step, the board met today for an emergency meeting. pic.twitter.com/wCT5zBH3br
— Hockey Nova Scotia (@HockeyNS) October 6, 2022
N.S. Premier Weighs In
Premier Tim Houston says before the World Juniors go forward in Halifax this year, Hockey Canada needs to make meaningful changes.
He says the withdrawal of so many sponsors is a signal that Hockey Canada’s response to sexual assault allegations and concerns around funding have been inadequate.
Houston says he’s been calling for change since July, and Canadians have the right to expect action and answers.
I am deeply disappointed by what we continue to see with Hockey Canada.
I said back in July that Hockey Canada has a lot of work to do. Canadians have the right to expect action, answers and accountability from the organization.
— Tim Houston (@TimHoustonNS) October 6, 2022
Prime Minister Comments
Justin Trudeau said yesterday that Hockey Canada has lost the confidence of Canadians.
“The total loss of faith in that organization by everyone, means that it’s nonsensical that they’re digging in their heels on this one. There needs to be wholesale change,” said the PM.
Trudeau said there is a lack of understanding that they’ve lost Canadians’ confidence, and the sooner they get to that, the better it will be for everyone.
(with files from Tara Clow)
