Canada Soccer ‘mishandled’ sexual harassment allegations, report finds

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An independent review has concluded that Canada Soccer “mishandled” sexual harassment allegations in 2008 against then under-20 women’s coach Bob Birarda.

Birarda is currently awaiting sentencing on sexual assault charges.

The 125-page report by McLaren Global Sport Solution, commissioned by Canada Soccer, concluded that “harassment was not a priority issue amongst the senior CSA (Canadian Soccer Association) leadership team” at the time.

The independent review also comes on the heels of similar allegations against Hockey Canada, which prompted the sports minister to freeze funding to the organization.

Abigail Bimman reports on how the minister’s office is responding to these latest allegations, and on the growing calls for accountability in Canada’s sports associations.