MKO Disappointed by Government of Canada’s Appeal of the Federal Court Ruling

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For immediate release
October 29, 2021

Treaty Five Territory, Thompson, MB – Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO) Inc. is issuing this statement to express disappointment in the decision made by the Government of Canada to appeal the court ruling made by the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal to compensate First Nations children impacted by the on-reserve child welfare system.

In September 2019, the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal ordered Ottawa to pay $40,000 — the maximum the tribunal can award — to each First Nations child removed from his or her home after 2006. It also told Ottawa to compensate the child’s parents or grandparents, whoever were the primary caregivers.

Indigenous advocates continue to argue that taking First Nations children to court isn’t consistent with true reconciliation.

“Today’s decision is extremely disappointing. I urge the Government of Canada to drop this notice to appeal and end the discrimination against First Nations children and their families,” shared Grand Chief Garrison Settee.

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For more information:

Melanie Ferris, Communications Officer
Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak
Phone: 204-612-1284
Email: [email protected]