MP Slams Delay Of Fast-Track Survivor Payments

MP Slams Delay Of Fast-Track Survivor Payments

Tuesday, April 11, 2006 at 13:31

Northern Saskatchewan’s Member of Parliament says the Conservative government is making up excuses not to make fast-track payments to the sick and elderly survivors of residential schools.

Gary Merasty says Indian Affairs Minister Jim Prentice’s reasons for halting the payments are “fictitious”.

Merasty says, contrary to what Prentice was saying yesterday, the $8,000 payments are not dependent upon the final agreement being approved in court — something Merasty says was clearly outlined and stated in the residential school compensation agreement reached in November.

Merasty says the Conservatives lack the political will to make the payments a reality for the sick and elderly survivors.

Many are living in poverty, and news reports today indicate they are dying at an estimated rate of more than 15 a week.

(with files from Broadcast News)