Athletics Canada regrets that past policies and procedures weren’t what they needed to be to protect its athlete community, including support and avenues for victims. Over the last year Safe Sport issues shook our sport showing the need for a review of both past and current policies and procedures.

As a result, Athletics Canada engaged the Sport Law & Strategy Group to conduct a full review of Bylaws and Policies including the third-party Commissioner’s Office. In addition, an internal review of policies and practices was completed by our legal counsel. The goal was to ensure our Safe Sport system was as strong as possible to protect our athletes, coaches and volunteers.

These reviews showed that past regulatory policies and procedures lacked emphasis to protect the athlete community. In recent years Athletics Canada made many changes to strengthen its system, including the creation of the independent Commissioner’s Office in 2015. Recognizing that enhanced policies and reporting obligations are critical to safeguarding athletes, during the course of the 2020 Annual General Meeting, we will review and approve improvements to the Commissioner’s Office and other existing policies. As well, new policies will be put forth such as a Whistleblower Policy to facilitate the reporting of inappropriate behaviours.

“Athletics Canada’s complaint procedure is aimed at providing a fair process, where findings of maltreatment will be met with appropriate and proportionate sanctions. Collectively we all have a responsibility to ensure our sport is safe for our athletes, coaches, officials and volunteers. Athletics Canada’s Board, provincial & territorial branches and staff are committed to leading the way,” said Bill MacMackin, Chair, Athletics Canada.

Sport Law & Strategy Group’s recommendations were vetted by Athletics Canada’s Governance Committee and Board of Directors, and will be approved at the 2020 Annual General Meeting.

Athletics Canada would like to acknowledge funding from the Government of Canada which allowed us to complete this review resulting in strengthened Safe Sport measures and protocols for our community.

Improved governance / policies

• Bylaws
• Code of Conduct and Ethics
• Commissioner’s Office
• Harassment Policy
• Technical Rules

New governance / policies

• Whistleblower Policy
• Athlete Protection Guidelines
• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Policy
• Safe and Equitable Sport Committee
• Screening Policy and Requirements