Hockey Québec launching investigation into alleged racism involving Gatineau team

Hockey Québec is initiating an independent investigation into allegations of racism involving a minor hockey team from Gatineau, Québec. 

In a media release on Aug. 11, Hockey Québec stated that in the spring of 2021, several complaints of alleged racism were made involving the Intrépide de l'Outaouais franchise, and the complaints were filed to the complaints officer under Hockey Québec. 

The complainant process couldn't be completed at the time, but an independent investigation is being recommended in light of information collected by the complaints officer.

Six players from the team were suspended from all team activities last spring following the allegations of racism targeting two players, and the Intrépide de l'Outaouais' final two games were cancelled. 

“As several elements reported during the process provided for in the Integrity Protection Policy require further investigation, an independent investigation is necessary in order to shed full light on the situation,” said Vicky Poirier, integrity protection complaints officer. 

While the investigation is being held, Hockey Quebec is allowing the suspended players to resume their hockey activities. However, Hockey Québec requires that they complete the 'Respect and Sport' online training intended for them in the coming days. Hockey Québec will assume the costs.

At the end of the independent investigation, the investigator will submit his report to Hockey Québec, and formulate recommendations in order to prevent, treat and sanction any form of mistreatment which has occurred more particularly in the Outaouais and, by the same token, to apply its recommendations to all members of Hockey Québec, where applicable.