Hockey Manitoba says it supports the call by Members of Parliament for a change in Hockey Canada's leadership.
Hockey Canada continues to vigorously defend its leadership amid criticism over the handling of alleged sexual assaults and the way money was paid out in lawsuits. The revelations include an admission by Hockey Canada that it drew on minor hockey membership fees to pay for uninsured liabilities, including sexual abuse claims.
On Thursday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau floated the idea of starting from scratch with a new organization if there is no wholesale change at Hockey Canada. Canadian Tire, Tim Hortons and Telus are just a few of the corporations that have already pulled their support with Hockey Canada for this season.
Hockey Manitoba has issued a statement saying its board of directors supports the call for a change in Hockey Canada's leadership at the senior staff level and board of directors. Hockey Manitoba is also calling for a review of the Hockey Canada Action Plan to include consultation from experts or organizations working in education, awareness and prevention of sexual violence, abuse, bullying and discrimination.
The statement goes on to say that Hockey Manitoba representatives will not be offering any further comments regarding the ongoing and fluid situation with Hockey Canada. The statement says:
"In this time media members are asked to respect this request and the valuable time of staff and volunteers as they navigate this unprecedented period in hockey governance all while administering the game we love in order to launch the 2022-23 season. Updates and media opportunities will be made once further developments unfold on the national scene, namely the thorough review of the upcoming report from the Honourable Thomas Cromwell C.C., along with further attention to the situation being addressed around Hockey Canada leadership and the Hockey Canada Action Plan."