Hon. Kristopher Wells: Senator Moreau, the Court of Arbitration for Sport’s recent decision to overturn the International Ice Hockey Federation’s ban on Russian hockey teams raises serious concerns, particularly given Russia’s ongoing illegal war of aggression against Ukraine.
Earlier this week, Prime Minister Carney made Canada’s position clear: Russian and Belarusian athletes will not be permitted to represent their countries at the World Junior Hockey Championship in Alberta while the war continues.
Can you explain what specific measures the government will take to ensure this commitment is upheld, including working with Hockey Canada, the IIHF and our international partners to prevent Russia’s participation?
Hon. Pierre Moreau (Government Representative in the Senate): Canada has stood firmly with Ukraine since Russia’s illegal invasion, committing to over $26 billion in assistance, imposing sweeping sanctions and working with our allies to support Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Canada remains opposed to the formal representation of Russia and Belarus in international sports while Russia’s war of aggression continues.
To answer your question specifically, Senator Wells, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship will exercise her authority under subsection 22.1(1) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to individually assess and prevent Russian and Belarusian athletes and officials from entering Canada to compete under their national symbols.
An Hon. Senator: Hear, hear.
Senator K. Wells: The Prime Minister’s announcement sends an important message about Canada’s commitment to Ukraine and the principle that sport cannot be used to normalize an illegal war of aggression.
Will the government extend this position to other international sporting competitions hosted in Canada, including the 2027 IIHF Women’s World Championship in Quebec City, and work with our allies to ensure a coordinated international response?
Senator Moreau: The government’s commitment extends well beyond sports. Canada will continue supporting Ukraine through military, financial and humanitarian assistance in a coordinated international effort to achieve a just and lasting peace.
The government will continue to require that events receiving federal funding prohibit Russian and Belarusian athletes from competing under their national symbols.