CCES Statement on SDRCC Announcing New Fees for Review and Appeal Services

August 11, 2025 – The Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport (CCES) is deeply concerned by the Sport Dispute Resolution Centre of Canada's (SDRCC) recent decision to introduce fees for access to review and appeal services with regard to the Safeguarding Tribunal, as permitted under the Canadian Safe Sport Program (CSSP). This change will have a direct and significant impact on individuals involved in the CSSP reporting process. 

While the SDRCC has chosen to institute a minimal filing fee for a review or appeal for individuals suspended following allegations of maltreatment, those who report or are affected by maltreatment may now face a far more expensive, fee-for-service model to seek a review or appeal of a decision. Respondents who are not suspended may also be subject to significantly increased fees.

The right to appeal ensures accountability, builds trust in the system, and offers recourse for those who believe a decision was made in error. Introducing fees that could amount to thousands of dollars risks making this critical process inaccessible to individuals already facing emotionally difficult circumstances.

Under the Abuse-Free Sport model, no fees were imposed for accessing the review or appeal process. When the CCES agreed to administer the CSSP, it was with the understanding that financial barriers would not be placed on participants, including access to review and appeal to the SDRCC as outlined in the CSSP Rules.

We urge the SDRCC to work with Sport Canada to ensure the right to appeal is available to everyone, regardless of financial means.