Hockey Canada will stop using registration fees to settle sexual assault claims

Hockey Canada says it will no longer use registration fee money, which it sets aside in its National Equity Fund, to settle sexual assault claims.

Hockey Canada released a statement Wednesday afternoon amid criticism over its use of the fund saying it will undergo a « comprehensive review of the governance of our organization which will be overseen by an independent third party. »

« This will include the National Equity Fund, » Hockey Canada said.

“As of today, the National Equity Fund will no longer be used to settle sexual assault claims. Instead, it will be exclusively dedicated to safety, well-being and equity initiatives…”

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau slammed the leadership of Hockey Canada on Tuesday after revelations it held the fund to handle sexual abuse complaints.

« I think right now it’s hard for anyone in Canada to have faith or trust in anyone at Hockey Canada, » Trudeau told reporters in British Columbia.

This is breaking news and will be updated with more details.

With files from The Canadian Press