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New Release

Government, Churches and Former Indian Residential School Students Seek Ways to Resolve the Past

OTTAWA (September 7, 2001) – A group of former students of Indian residential schools met this week with federal government representatives and churches to continue discussions on ways to work together in resolving ongoing legal claims stemming from abuse that took place at these institutions.

Aboriginal children were sent to 100 schools across Canada which were run by church organizations on behalf of the federal government. In the past few years, Canadians have begun to learn that the legacy of these schools includes the physical and sexual abuse of children and the suppression of their language, culture and spirituality. More than 8,500 people are currently involved in lawsuits against the government and churches as a result.

This meeting is one part of the overall effort by the federal government and Catholic, Anglican, United and Presbyterian churches and former students to work together to resolve the pain and suffering of those who suffered abuse while attending these schools. This week's meeting focussed on different methods of reconciliation that can take place outside the courts.

"We hope to encourage communities to participate in this endeavour," said Gerry Kelly, Coordinator of the Catholic Organizations' Task Group on Residential Schools, " in partnership, we can communicate to former students that it is okay to seek healing now, instead of later."

"Some survivors of Indian residential schools find it more meaningful to be involved in an out-of-court resolution process due to its less adversarial nature and because it provides better results for long-term reconciliation with the government and churches", said Ed Metatawabin, negotiator for Peetabeck Keway Keykaywin Association and Survivor Group.

"Resolution mechanisms allow us to discuss ways of reconciling in partnership, with all parties working together."

Deputy Minister Jack Stagg of the Office of Indian Residential Schools Resolution of Canada confirmed that "our meeting focussed on out-of-court resolution mechanisms, which can be less confrontational and may be better suited to addressing the legacy of these schools and finding long-lasting solutions for everyone."

Future meetings of this group will continue to address issues related to the best use of resolution mechanisms in addressing these conflicts. The group also plans to consider ways in which it can increase awareness and knowledge of these mechanisms and other related issues which Aboriginal communities continue to confront.

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For further information, contact:

Nicole Dakin
Office of Indian Residential Schools Resolution of Canada
613-992-2335

Norman Yakeleya
Grollier Hall Healing Circle
Yellowknife, NWT
867-669-9776

Archdeacon Jim Boyles
Anglican Church of Canada
416-924-9199