FREDERICTON (GNB) – Safe sport, Canada Games and the renewal of the Canadian Sport Policy were the focus of weekend meetings of the federal, provincial and territorial ministers responsible for sport, physical activity and recreation in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island.
Tourism, Heritage and Culture Minister Tammy Scott-Wallace attended the conference and discussed sport safety issues, including updates on the New Brunswick Safe Sport Dispute Resolution Program, safe sport policies, as well as the Canada Games and issues related to concussions.
“We want everyone to be able to confidently take advantage of the individual and community benefits that sports offer in safe environments,” said Scott-Wallace. “The culture of sport must change in order to provide our athletes with safe, inclusive environments that promote their physical and mental well-being. We will continue to work with partners to ensure opportunities for our athletes are free of violence, harassment and that accountability is in place.”
The meeting was held in anticipation of the Canada Games, which opened over the weekend. At the meeting, the ministers confirmed that lacrosse, the national summer sport of Canada, would be added to the Canada Games beginning in 2025.
“Team New Brunswick’s 215 athletes are ready to compete with the best across Canada and we cannot wait to cheer them on,” said Scott-Wallace. “Through sport, stories and connections are made for life and we look forward to the Games being hosted in New Brunswick in the summer of 2029.”
Progress on the renewal of the Canadian Sport Policy was also discussed and the ministers received an update on the consultation process. The updated policy, which is set to be renewed this year, will be in effect until 2033.
The ministers agreed to strengthen their 2019 commitment to increase the participation of women and girls in sport and ensure it remains a priority. Scott-Wallace reaffirmed New Brunswick’s commitment to investing in various organizations that promote, mentor and provide programming to further the participation of women and girls in sports.