The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador regrets to advise that it is unable to proceed with plans to deliver formal apologies to Inuit residential schools survivors and their descendants at this time.
Officials from both the Province and the Nunatsiavut Government have been engaged in discussions for several months on arrangements to hold events in each of the five Labrador Inuit communities. The Honourable Dwight Ball, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, was scheduled to travel to Nunatsiavut in March, but plans were put on hold because of the coronavirus pandemic and the imposition of travel restrictions by public health officials. Discussions continued with officials and representatives of the survivors and their families, with plans to hold events this month. Despite all options being explored, it wasn’t possible under the present public health measures to accommodate the anticipated number of people interested in attending the public events, while ensuring the health of survivors, family members, and residents of Nunatsiavut.
The Nunatsiavut Government acknowledges Premier Ball’s interest and commitment to deliver the apologies. Both governments thank and appreciate the engagement and support of residential schools survivors, their families and representatives for their efforts in trying to make appropriate arrangements for events in each Nunatsiavut community.