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News Release

Government of Canada announces agreement in principle toward a fair and lasting resolution of the legacy of Indian residential schools

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	Agreement in Principle

OTTAWA (November 23, 2005) – The Honourable Anne McLellan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister responsible for Indian Residential Schools Resolution Canada, the Honourable Irwin Cotler, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, and the Honourable Andy Scott, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development announced today that the parties involved have reached an Agreement in Principle toward a fair and lasting resolution of the legacy of Indian residential schools.

“The Government’s Representative, the Honourable Frank Iacobucci, has reached an Agreement in Principle with the Assembly of First Nations, legal representatives of former students of Indian residential schools and representatives of the Churches involved in running those schools. The parties to Mr. Iacobucci’s discussions are in agreement on the ways to recognize the common Indian residential school experience of former students” said Deputy Prime Minister McLellan.

“The Agreement in Principle proposes a common experience payment to be paid to all former students of Indian residential schools, an improved alternative dispute resolution process for claims of serious abuse, as well as measures to support healing, commemorative activities, and further investigation and education concerning past policies and their continuing impact on Aboriginal Canadians and their families” added the Deputy Prime Minister.

“I would like to thank the Honourable Frank Iacobucci for his extraordinary efforts over the past six months,” said Minister Cotler. “The historic agreement he has reached with former students’ counsel, the Assembly of First Nations, and Church representatives reflects a shared vision of a fair, just and lasting resolution of the Indian residential school legacy.”

“This Agreement in Principle is a landmark agreement,” said Minister Scott, “and as we prepare for the First Minister’s Meeting on Aboriginal issues, today’s announcement reaffirms the Government’s commitment to strengthening relationships with First Nations, Métis, and Inuit people across Canada.”

$1.9 Billion has been set aside for the direct benefit of former Indian residential school students. The Government also announced that eligible former Indian residential school students 65 years of age and older will soon be able to apply for an advance payment of $8000.