Statement by the Honourable Bal Gosal, Minister of State (Sport), on the Canadian Soccer Association's Decision to Suspend the Quebec Soccer Federation

OTTAWA, June 11, 2013 /CNW/ - On June 10, 2013, the Board of Directors of the Canadian Soccer Association moved to immediately suspend the Quebec Soccer Federation for their non-compliance to the directive of allowing soccer players to wear turbans/patkas/keski.

As Minister of State for Sport, I am dedicated to ensuring a safe and ethical sport and recreation environment in Canada.

I am, as we all should be, proud of our country's diversity and the fact that people in our great nation have the opportunity to enjoy participating in the sport of their choice, free from discrimination of any kind.

The Government of Canada is a major supporter of the Canadian sport system and provides funding to eligible national sport organizations to support them in their goal of increasing barrier-free participation and excellence in their respective sports.

I hope the Canadian Soccer Association and the Quebec Soccer Federation will resolve this matter very soon, so all children will be allowed back on the field.

SOURCE: Canadian Heritage