Earlier this week it was announced Hockey Canada CEO Scott Smith and the entire board of directors had agreed to step down from the organization.
This came following months of hearings after a string of sexual assault allegations coming forward with Hockey Canada using money from its reserve fund to pay for settlements totaling $7.6 million.
Perth-Wellington MP John Nater was a member of the hearings who was the Shadow Minister of Canadian Heritage. Earlier this week Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre announced his shadow cabinet which see’s Rachel Thomas assume the role for Canadian Heritage.
Nater says this move of Smith and the board stepping down should have happened sooner.
“Obviously I’m disappointed it took this long. I think for the last three months it became very clear Mr. Smith and the board did not have the confidence of Canadians.” said Nater.
Smith in July during hearings said he did not intend to step down but would accept responsibility and make changes.
It was also discovered some registration fees across the country was sent for the equity fund which paid for settlements.
While some concern lingers for parents about paying up registration fees, Nater says its important to make sure you’re involved.
“Make sure you pay attention to where these registration fees are going and if possible get involved with the governance of these different organizations and make sure going forward there is transparency on where every dollar is being spent when kids hockey fees and registration is involved.”
Going forward, an interim management committee is focusing on day to day operations for Hockey Canada with a report from former Supreme Court Justice, Thomas Cromwell to be released in the near future.
