Feds pledge $5 million to promote safety in youth sports

Gary Lunn, Minister of State for Sports announces funding to support injury prevention in sports and recreation among children and youth on Wednesday, March 16, 2011, in Montreal. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Paul Chiasson

MONTREAL - The Conservative government is committing $5 million to prevent injuries in youth sports.

Sports minister Gary Lunn says the government is funding the two-year plan with hope of promoting safety and reducing preventable injuries, including concussions.

Lunn made the announcement in Montreal, where hockey head injuries have been a hot topic.

Montreal Canadiens forward Max Pacioretty suffered a severe concussion and fractured vertebra after his head was driven into a stanchion during a recent game.

The federal sports minister has condemned the hit by Boston Bruins captain Zdeno Chara, but says he's not looking at any legislative changes and it's up to the NHL to make the game safer.