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	Indian Residential Schools Truth and Reconciliation Commission - News Release CNW October 21, 2008 http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/October2008/21/c8247.html OTTAWA - Indian Residential Schools Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Commissioners Claudette Dumont-Smith and Jane Brewin Morley, Q.C. announced today that they were disappointed and saddened to learn of Justice LaForme's decision to resign as Chair of the TRC, effective October 20, 2008. Justice Harry LaForme, Claudette Dumont-Smith and Jane Brewin Morley, Q.C., were appointed as Commissioners by Orders-in-Council after a selection process involving representatives of all the parties to the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement. The Commission was established on June 1, 2008. "The TRC process, designed by the parties to the Settlement Agreement of the Indian Residential Schools class action suit, is unique and has never been tried before in Canada or the world. It is not surprising that we have had some growing pains," commented Commissioner Dumont-Smith. "It is unfortunate that we had not met as a Commission since August 26. Had we met more often I am sure that we could have worked through any issues we were facing," she said. Commissioners Dumont-Smith and Morley agree that the Truth and Reconciliation process is intended to be one of healing and reconciliation for both the Aboriginal peoples and Canadians. "Providing an opportunity for Indian Residential Schools survivors, who for so long have remained silent about their experiences, to tell their stories is important for them in their healing process. It is equally important for Canada as a nation to heal its broken relationship with Aboriginal peoples," they said. "By listening to the experiences of those who went to Residential Schools and reflecting on those experiences, non-Aboriginal Canadians will reach a better understanding of Aboriginal peoples that will lead to future relationships built on mutual respect." "I am honoured to have been chosen by the parties to be a Commissioner, and I feel a responsibility to carry on with the important task I have been given." said Commissioner Morley from Prince George, B.C., where she is attending a regional gathering of residential schools survivors. "It is clear that the parties to the Settlement Agreement wanted the process to be centred on the survivors. I feel that I owe it to them, their families, their communities, to all First Nations, Metis and Inuit peoples in Canada to do my best to make this process work." For the duration of its five year mandate, the Commission will gather statements from survivors and others who were part of the Indian Residential Schools experience. The TRC will hold national events across Canada to educate the Canadian public, and will be participating in community events designed by communities. For further information: Kimberly Phillips, Indian Residential Schools Truth and Reconciliation Commission, (613) 219-5872
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