Statement - Minister Bennett Welcomes Settlement Agreement Between Canada and Survivors of Five Boarding Schools in Newfoundland and Labrador

OTTAWA, Sept. 30, 2016 /CNW/ - Today, the Honourable Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs, made the following statement:

"Today, I am pleased to note a significant step in Canada's journey of reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. Our government welcomes the Supreme Court of Newfoundland and Labrador's ruling in favour of the proposed settlement agreement negotiated between Canada and survivors of five boarding schools located in the province. This resolution means that all parties can now move forward with the implementation of the agreement, including the extremely important work of healing and commemoration.

We understand litigation of this kind is difficult for all involved and we are committed to moving past this sad and terrible chapter in our history. We are looking forward to working with all our partners to implement the settlement agreement and help bring closure to the survivors of these schools.

As the Prime Minister has said, no relationship is more important to him and to Canada than the one with Indigenous peoples. That's why negotiation, rather than litigation, remains our government's preferred route to settle differences and right historical wrongs. We are truly committed to advancing reconciliation and renewing, on a nation-to-nation basis the relationship with Indigenous peoples, based on recognition of rights, respect, co-operation and partnership."

This statement is also available on the Internet at www.aandc.gc.ca.

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SOURCE Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada

Sabrina Williams, Press Secretary, Office of the Honourable Carolyn Bennett, 819-997-0002; Media Relations, Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada, 819-953-1160