New Democrats call for Royal Commission on violence in sports

OTTAWA – New Democrat Sports Critic Glenn Thibeault (Sudbury) and Deputy Leader Thomas Mulcair (Outremont) called today for a Royal Commission on violence in sports.

New Democrats made this demand on behalf of the millions of people concerned about the increase in disgraceful and violent behaviour in sport, and the inability of professional and amateur leagues to solve the problem.

“It is high time this issue is taken seriously. League authorities need to explain why a savage attack, which would result in charges of aggravated assault anywhere else, warrants nothing but a few game suspensions,” said Thibeault.

Patrice Cormier’s hit has caused an outcry. A chorus of voices is demanding action—this violent act, like too many others before, simply has no place in sports, according to the New Democratic Party.

A Royal Commission would study the issue in detail. Stakeholders could speak freely in a non-partisan environment. Testimony from league authorities, coaches, athletes, trainers, health specialists, referees, the media and parents would help forge concrete solutions to put an end to gratuitous violence.

“The police and prosecutors need to explain why so few charges are laid following such acts at sporting events,” said Mulcair, himself a lawyer. “People want to know: where’s the justice? Aggravated assault charges would be laid anywhere else. If the young Tam had never woken up, what then?”

The New Democratic Party intends to call on the government to swiftly set up this commission, which would have an extensive mandate. If the government refuses, the NDP will look at other options to do what needs to be done to put an end to this escalating violence.