Province Congratulates Truth and Reconciliation Commission, Survivors

Premier Darrell Dexter thanked the members of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada for visiting Nova Scotia and helping aboriginal and non-aboriginal people alike to better understand what First Nations children experienced in residential schools across the country.

The commission concludes four days of witness testimony, learning opportunities and Mi'kmaw cultural demonstrations in Halifax today, Oct. 29. Earlier this month the group also visited the First Nations communities of Indian Brook and Eskasoni to gather stories from residential school survivors.

"The hard work of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada has created an opportunity for resolution and healing," said Premier Dexter, who also serves as Minister of Aboriginal Affairs. "We cannot undo the damage suffered by so many of our First Nations children but we can respect and honour their stories.

"I want to thank the commission, as well as the survivors and their families for sharing their experiences with Nova Scotians. These stories are now, and will forever be, a part of our shared history."

To further strengthen and honour the longstanding partnership with the Mi'kmaq, and in a gesture of reconciliation, the province will establish a scholarship to help young Mi'kmaq pursue their passion to become a teacher.

"Our young people need good, strong role models, particularly in the Mi'kmaw community," said Premier Dexter. "I hope that this scholarship will encourage more people to help educate and guide the next generation of Nova Scotians."

The $6,000 scholarship will help ensure that the Mi'kmaw culture and language live on in the public and Mi'kmaw school system for generations to come.

The funding will be available each year, starting in the 2012-13 school year.