Canadian Federal Government

Toronto, ON: A class action lawsuit was filed on behalf of former aboriginal residential school students alleging sexual and physical abuse. The Canadian Federal Government has agreed to a settlement that includes a common experience average payment of $24,000 which will be available to all former students who were ripped away from their families and sent to various institutions across the country. The estimated 12,000 to 20,000 people who suffered physical and sexual abuse will be eligible for an additional $5,000 to $275,000 each. More than 80,000 people are entitled to benefits. The deal also includes $125 million for the aboriginal healing fund, $60 million for a truth and reconciliation process to document the history and legacy of government-run Indian residential schools, and $20 million for commemorative projects. (Dec-15-06) [EDMONTON SUN: ABORIGINAL SETTLEMENT]