Quebec court allows settlement for minor hockey coach abuse victims

In Canada, Quebec Superior Court has authorized a significant class action settlement related to the sexual abuse of minors by François Lamarre, a former hockey coach who was accused of numerous offenses before his death in 2020. The settlement compensates victims of Lamarre, who was involved with minor hockey in the Montreal suburb of Greenfield Park for nearly 30 years until his coaching career ended in 2001. Following his death, which came shortly after charges of gross indecency and sexual assault were brought against him, a civil trial was anticipated but was placed on hold due to discussions surrounding a potential settlement. The final agreement, granted by Justice Suzanne Courchesne, could amount to as much as $10.25 million, primarily funded by the City of Longueuil, where the coaching incidents occurred. Only a small portion of the settlement will be covered by Lamarre's estate. Pierre Boivin, a lawyer representing the victims, urged those eligible to step forward quickly, as there is a six-month window to file claims. This case highlights critical issues of accountability in sports organizations and the urgent need for protective measures against such abuses in youth sporting contexts.