In 2018, a 24-year-old woman accused several players of the gold team that won the Junior World Cup of sexual harassment. The ice hockey association reached a settlement with the woman for a secret amount, but during the spring the TSN TV channel revealed details of the settlement.

It was the start of a scandal that seemed to be getting stronger.

Subsequently, further allegations have been made against another Canadian junior team. Several players who represented Canada at the 2003 Junior World Cup were accused of raping a woman. The Ice Hockey Association said it was not aware of this.

The allegations, on the other hand, have led to internal investigations, sponsorship failures, police reports and have even had political ramifications.

Trying to cover

The ice hockey association has been summoned to conduct an investigation in parliament this week in which it was revealed how they had paid to protect the accused players.

The union admitted in interrogation this week that it had used money from the fund to deal with allegations of sexual harassment, Canada’s CTV reported.

The funds used come from incoming funds, including member fees. When it is discovered that a member’s funds have been used, it is immediately discontinued.

According to the investigation, the Ice Hockey Association has paid nearly NOK 60 million in nine different settlements since 1989, CTV wrote. Then the amount paid to women in 2018 is not included.

Loss of credibility

– This money has been used to support victims, not perpetrators, said association finance manager Bran Cairo.

Previous payments have not been published.

Some lawmakers have stated that they have lost the credibility of the ice hockey association, but ice hockey president Scott Smitt has no plans to resign.

– I am ready to take responsibility for changing the sport. I believe that I have the experience to do it, he said in the interview.

The NHL has also started its own investigation into allegations surrounding the team at the 2018 Junior World Cup. None of the eight suspected players have been named.