Wednesday, October 28, 2009

The QMJHL rejects Remparts’ complaint

Press Release

BOUCHERVILLE, Tuesday, October 27, 2009 – The formal complaint which was brought to the attention of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League by the Quebec Remparts organization over the week-end regarding comments made by Chicoutimi Saguenéens head coach Richard Martel towards forward Danick Paquette has been rejected.

The Commissioner of the QMJHL, Gilles Courteau, indicated that the comments could not be construed as defamatory. "Insults, physical or mental threats or any other gesture used to ridicule opponents will never be considered as acceptable even if such conduct signals frustrations which can appear to be legitimate. The QMJHL created an antidiscrimination policy in which severe disciplinary sanctions are included to prevent disrespectful behaviour. In this case, I believe that although the comments which were made are regrettable, they cannot be interpreted as defamatory in any way, shape or form."

In accordance with the QMJHL policy in the matter of disciplinary sanctions, the Commissioner will not be available for further comment.

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

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