Former Supreme Court of Canada judge Thomas Cromwell, 64, has been tabbed to spearhead an independent review of Hockey Canada following shocking allegations that have recently surfaced. Some of the disturbing information focuses on sexual assault allegations levelled against some players and also how payouts have been given out to victims in this case and ones prior to it.

The governance review was announced by Hockey Canada and is expected to begin almost immediately, with a hope that recommendations will be given prior to its annual general meeting in November.

At the centre of the controversy are allegations that members of the 2018 world junior team were involved in sexual misconduct and assault. A settlement was later reached with the complainant. However, the money provided to the victim came via a National Equity Fund, that was driven by player fees across the country.  Hockey Canada has confirmed that assets within that fund are no longer used to settle such claims.

Another allegation of group sexual assault involving the 2003 world junior team surfaced last month.

Hockey Canada president and chief executive officer Scott Smith said in a parliamentary hearing last week that he believes he is the right person to continue leading the organization, but if the governance review determined otherwise he is “prepared to accept that.”