Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said it is "difficult for anyone" to believe in the leadership of Hockey Canada amid emerging allegations concerning the fund set up partly to deal with sexual assault claims.

Trudeau said speaking to reporters in British Columbia today that the fund is "completely unacceptable."

Canadian hockey has faced severe criticism since May when news spread that the organization had quietly settled a lawsuit filed by a woman alleging she was assaulted by eight unnamed players, including members of the country's 2018 World Juniors team, after a party held in London, Ontario, four years ago.

Scott Smith, CEO of Hockey Canada, testified before Parliament last month that no government funds were used in the settlement.

The woman was seeking damages of more than $3.5 million.

None of these claims have been proven in court. Robert Thomas, a St. Louis Blues forward and a member of the 2018 World Juniors team, issued a statement on social media Tuesday saying he was not involved in the incident.

Four other team members - Kale MacCar, Victor Mete, Conor Timmins, and Jonah Gadjovich - also publicly stated they were not involved.