CFLPA files grievance claiming league 'failed in duties' to protect players

The CFL Players' Association filed a grievance against the league relating to player safety and rehabilitation, alleging the CFL and its clubs "have chosen not to act on their obligation to care for CFL players who sustain long-term injuries on the field, despite their responsibility to do so" in a statement, according to The Canadian Press.

The statement was released by the union Wednesday morning, after the CFLPA wrote a letter to the league's legal representatives dated Sunday that informed the CFL of the grievance. The union claims the league "failed in their duties to players" by not properly informing them of the risks of injuries.

The CFLPA requested an arbitrator to fully compensate players who have been injured "as a result of the respondent's failures and negligence," with "damages and interest where appropriate." The union also wants policy and rule changes aimed at reducing injuries, and coverage under provincial worker compensation plans.

The announcement comes shortly after former CFL receiver Arland Bruce III was denied a hearing by the Supreme Court of Canada for his concussion lawsuit against the league. Court documents claimed that Bruce sustained "permanent and disabling" head trauma as a player that continues to affect him long term.

The CFL has yet to respond regarding the grievance.