Misconduct seen as a major issue: poll

A majority of Canadians believe sexual harassment and sexual assault are a major problem in youth hockey, according to an Angus Reid poll. Fifty-eight per cent of respondents feel incidences of sexual misconduct are a major issue while 17 per cent believe they are a minor problem.

Fifty-six per cent of respondents who have close ties with youth hockey feel sexual misconduct was a major problem. Angus Reid said women of all ages are more likely to perceive a major problem compared to men in their same generational bracket. Men younger than 35 are least likely to feel there is an issue.

Angus Reid released its findings Wednesday as the quarterfinals were being played at the world junior championship in Edmonton.

The tournament is being held under scrutiny as Hockey Canada deals with the fallout of a scandal over its handling of sexual assault allegations made against members of its 2003 and 2016 world junior teams.

In other findings, 63 per cent of respondents felt change in Hockey Canada’s leadership is necessary, and 27 per cent are confident the governing body’s recently announced plan to combat what it calls toxic behaviour in hockey will improve how women and girls are treated.

Angus Reid said the results are from an online survey conducted Aug. 8-10 among a randomized sample of 2,279 Canadian adults who are members of Angus Reid Forum. The survey has a margin of error of plus or minus two percentage points, 19 times out of 20. The survey was commissioned and paid for by Angus Reid.

58 per cent of Canadians believe sexual misconduct is a major issue in youth hockey