The government of Canada signed an agreement with the Assembly of First Nations on Monday aimed at settling abuse claims by former residential school students.

Former Supreme Court Justice Frank Iacobucci will mediate the dispute and recommend resolution of more than 13,000 claims that have been lodged against the government. He will also study the creation of a national truth-and-reconciliation forum.

AFN has been pushing for a lump sum settlement for victims of physical, sexual and mental abuse at government-sponsored schools. Meanwhile, survivors have filed class action suits seeking more than $15 billion (Canadian). Some survivors say hospitals should be held accountable in addition to the government and churches.

The government has set up an alternative dispute resolution process to handle claims but more money has been spent on lawyers and administrative costs than payouts. Only 1,300 cases have been resolved.

Get the Story:
Former Supreme Court judge to mediate residential school talks (CBC 5/30)
Assembly of First Nations National Chief Signs Historic Political Accord to resolve the Legacy of Residential Schools (AFN 5/30)
Mediator named to residential schools talks (CTV 5/30)
Hospitals' role in aboriginal abuse raised as issue (CBC 5/30)
'Turning point' hailed (CP 5/31)

Relevant Links:
Indian Residential Schools Resolution Department - http://www.irsr-rqpi.gc.ca/english

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