Debate Over Residential School Apology Not Over
Wednesday, May 02, 2007 at 17:02
The House of Commons voted unanimously yesterday to apologize to Aboriginal people for the residential schools.
But Indian Affairs Minister Jim Prentice says a formal apology from the Conservative government is likely years away — if it comes at all.
The Liberal Member of Parliament that introduced the motion says the government’s reasons for refusing to apologize simply don’t wash.
Desnethe-Missinippi-Churchill River MP Gary Merasty says Prentice has openly admitted there are no legal ramifications to worry about.
Merasty also doubts waiting another five years for the government’s truth and reconciliation process to conclude is actually needed.
As well, Merasty insists Prime Minister Stephen Harper has shown no willingness to even admit that establishing the residential schools was wrong to begin with.
Merasty acknowledges one of the reasons he drafting his motion to have the House of Commons apologize is to force Harper’s hand.
The northern Saskatchewan MP says many survivors tell him the apology is more important to them than the compensation payments.
He adds the clock is ticking on the government to do the right thing.
(with files from The Canadian Press)