A church in Newfoundland has been ordered to pay a staggering $104 million to victims of historical abuse. The decision, made by the Supreme Court of Newfoundland and Labrador, marks the largest payout for historical abuse in Canadian history.
The case involves the former Mount Cashel Orphanage, which was run by the Christian Brothers of Ireland from 1949 to 1990. The orphanage was shut down after numerous allegations of physical and sexual abuse were brought to light.
The victims, who were residents of the orphanage during that time, filed a class-action lawsuit against the Christian Brothers of Ireland and the Roman Catholic Episcopal Corporation of St. John’s. The lawsuit alleged that the organizations were aware of the abuse and failed to take appropriate action to protect the children in their care.
After a lengthy legal battle, the Supreme Court of Newfoundland and Labrador ruled in favor of the victims, ordering the church to pay $104 million in damages. The amount includes $2 million in general damages for each of the 52 victims, as well as $1 million in punitive damages.
In his decision, Justice Alphonsus Faour stated that the church’s actions were “reprehensible and deserving of punishment.” He also noted that the victims have suffered long-lasting physical, emotional, and psychological harm as a result of the abuse they endured.
The church has expressed remorse for the abuse that took place at the orphanage and has apologized to the victims. However, they have also stated that they are considering an appeal of the court’s decision.
This landmark ruling serves as a reminder that institutions must be held accountable for their actions, especially when it comes to the safety and well-being of vulnerable individuals. It also sends a message that victims of historical abuse will not be silenced and that justice can still be served, even decades later.
The victims’ lawyer, Geoff Budden, has stated that the decision will bring closure and validation to his clients, who have been fighting for justice for many years. He also hopes that this ruling will encourage other victims of historical abuse to come forward and seek justice.
The church now has 30 days to appeal the decision. In the meantime, the victims can finally begin to heal and move forward, knowing that their voices have been heard and their suffering has been acknowledged.
