Province gives FSIN $2 million towards residential school site research

The province is providing $2 million towards supporting research into undocumented deaths and burials on former residential school sites in Saskatchewan.

First Nations, Metis and Northern Affairs Minister Don McMorris announced the injection of money going to the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations (FSIN) Friday.

“It will be a challenging and emotional road for all of us,” he said. “But one that we must walk together because it’s the right thing to do. We owe it to those who were lost to this residential school system and those who continue to suffer from the effects.”

He also challenged the federal government to match the province’s contribution.

FSIN Chief Bobby Cameron says he’s grateful for the money and it’s a great start. Although there’s no exact budget breakdown, a request was made for $5 million. The money will go towards ground radar searches, healing ceremonies, and counselling.

Protocols and sacred ceremonies have already been held at some of the sites where investigations will be taking place, including Muskowekwan, Onion Lake, St. Anthony’s, Beauval, Guy Hill, Lebret and Sturgeon Landing.

“The power of our First Nations people and the power of prayer is going to see us through this,” Cameron said. “This investment from the provincial government will help a great deal. But we’re going to continue on this healing journey no matter what.”

Cameron hopes the investigations will get underway soon.

“We’re hoping this turnaround happens as quickly as possible and we continue. I can not stress enough the importance of that healing journey. There are still survivors out there who don’t know where their loved one is, never seen them, disappeared. We hear these stories at every single residential school site,” he explained.

Cameron also wants Pope Francis to visit the province and apologize to residential school survivors and descendants.

“Forgive and heal. This is what we pray for,” Cameron said.