NDP renews calls for public investigation into minor league hockey

QUEEN’S PARK – MPP Jennie Stevens (St. Catharines), Official Opposition NDP critic for Sports and Tourism, renewed calls for a public investigation into the Greater Toronto Hockey League (GTHL) after the Canadian Revenue Agency (CRA) launched an investigation into allegations of minor league hockey teams being bought and sold. Her statement:

“These secret, backroom deals are so sketchy that the CRA is investigating possible tax fraud. Allegations that rich insiders are monetizing children who play hockey go completely against the spirit of fair play that we teach our athletes.

In the spring, I asked Minister Lumsden if he thought the GTHL's actions were worth investigating and he said no. I asked him today, in light of this important investigation, and for some reason, he refused again.

The GTHL is the largest amateur hockey organization in Canada, and I’m committed to keep fighting to ensure a level playing field for all kids who want to play the sport they love.

If Lumsden wants to learn the facts – the quickest way to do it is by opening a public investigation into the GTHL and getting to the bottom of this.”

Quick Facts

• April 25: TSN reports that that prospective buyers were being coached on how to improperly buy a GTHL team – which are supposed to be non-profit organizations
• April 25: The Ontario NDP call for a public investigation to stop corruption in GTHL hockey. Ford’s PCs refuse.
• Sept 25: TSN reports that the CRA is reviewing allegations of corruption within the GTHL based on claims made by Akim Aliu, prompting further calls for transparency and accountability by the Ontario NDP