Hockey Canada said in a statement its National Equity Fund will 'no longer be used to settle sexual assault claims,' effective immediately.
The news ignited further frustrations toward the organization, which has faced intense scrutiny for its handling of 2018 sexual assault allegations.
Later on Tuesday, a Hockey Canada spokesperson confirmed to Sportsnet the existence of the fund, which it said"covers a broad range of expenses related to safety, wellness and equity initiatives across our organization" and includes claims"not otherwise covered by insurance policies, including those related to physical injury, harassment, and sexual misconduct."
In its follow-up statement Wednesday, Hockey Canada said it"recognizes we have significant work to do to rebuild trust with Canadians" and reiterated its opening of a full governance review by an independent third party."Effective immediately, the National Equity Fund will no longer be used to settle sexual assault claims.
"Following the governance review, we will take any additional steps that are recommended. Should the review determine that a fund to support victims of sexual assault is required, as is common in other sporting organizations, we will ensure all claims are subject to the approval of an independent third-party.
"Canadians have been loud and clear: you expect our national sport and those representing it to work hard to earn your trust each day. We have heard you and are committed to making the changes necessary to allow us to be the organization you expect us to be, and to restore your confidence and trust in us.”
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