At a press conference after a small cabinet reshuffle on Wednesday, Trudeau was asked about Hockey Canada’s recent show of support for members of its leadership team as calls continue for a leadership change within the cabinet. the organization.
“Making sure that Canadians have faith in these organizations is a fundamental need, and it’s pretty clear that the government and Canadians in general have lost faith in the leadership of Hockey Canada,” he said.
“The longer it takes Hockey Canada to realize this, the more challenges it will face. »
In a brief statement released Monday, Andrea Skinner, interim chair of Hockey Canada’s board of directors, said the board stands with its chair Scott Smith and his leadership team as the organization undergoes review. of governance.
Hockey Canada has faced a major backlash over its handling of sexual assault allegations made by a woman who said she was assaulted by members of the 2018 World Junior Men’s Team. Hockey Canada has settled the claim for an unpaid amount. disclosed, and none of the allegations have been proven in court.
Trudeau had similar strong words for the organization in July when he said Hockey Canada needed a “real reckoning,” as he called for more transparency and accountability from its members. leaders.
So far, only one Hockey Canada board member, Michael Brind’Amour, has resigned, months earlier before his term expires in November. However, other sports organizations and sexual assault advocates continue to press for a change of direction and new investigations into the allegations.