Statement - Ministerial Special Representative Mr. James Igloliorte to lead healing and commemoration activities under the Newfoundland and Labrador Residential Schools Settlement Agreement

OTTAWA, June 8, 2017 /CNW/ - Today, the Honourable Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs, made the following statement:

"In keeping with our government's commitment to renewing our relationship with Indigenous peoples in Canada, it is with great pleasure that I announce the appointment of Mr. James Igloliorte as the Ministerial Special Representative to lead the healing and commemoration portion of the Newfoundland and Labrador Residential Schools Settlement Agreement.

As part of the Settlement Agreement, and in addition to the $50 million Settlement provided by Canada, the Government is separately funding healing and commemoration activities for former students of the five Newfoundland and Labrador residential schools and their families.

Mr. Igloliorte has strong roots in Newfoundland and Labrador and is well positioned to engage and work with Canada, Indigenous governments, former students and community members to implement the healing and commemoration portion of the Settlement Agreement. Over the coming months, his work will include leading healing and commemoration projects and participating in community sessions, facilitated discussions, and other activities in Newfoundland and Labrador with Canada, former students and their families.

Mr. Igloliorte's work will further advance the journey towards meaningful reconciliation between Canada and Indigenous peoples through a renewed relationship, and will assist in bringing healing and closure to the legacy of tragic abuse experienced by Indigenous children.

As we look forward to Canada's next 150 years, we are committed to moving past this sad and terrible chapter in our history. Together with Indigenous peoples, we are working to build a future that includes strong families, resilient communities, vibrant languages and cultures, and a stronger Canada for us all."

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, 613-697-8316; Media Relations, Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada, 819-953-1160