CANADA
Kenora Daily Miner
By Mike Aiken
Miner and News
Thursday November 24, 2005
“There’s both happiness and sorrow,” said residential school survivor Louis Cameron.
After learning about the news of a compensation award from the federal government, the Wabaseemoong (Whitedog) First Nation band member said he was happy the wait was over, but sad for the memory of all his family members, who didn’t live long enough to hear it for themselves.
Elder Julia Keewatin of Grassy Narrows agreed. Speaking through an interpreter, she said, “Since the announcement of reparations, many people have died. Do it now, before any more of our people die.”
On Wednesday morning, the federal government announced it would spend $2 billion to compensate those who attended residential schools. An initial award of $10,000 would be distributed to those who simply attended, with another $3,000 for each year of attendance.
The decision does not preclude further action for those who claim for physical or sexual abuse, said Kenora lawyer Doug Keshen, who was at the negotiating table Sunday, when the deal was reached.