TRC gains 1-year extension

The mandate of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) has been extended by one year, until June 20, 2015, announced Bernard Valcourt, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development last week. The TRC was seeking the extension of its mandate in order to finalize the gathering of documents relating to the Indian Residential School system and to write the final report. The mandate of the TRC is to learn the truth of the history of residential schools, and to educate the general Canadian public about what occurred. Assembly of First Nations Regional Chief Bill Erasmus, who holds the national portfolio for residential schools, noted “The TRC is essential in providing sharing and truth-telling opportunities for residential school survivors and reconciliation for all Canadians.  It is essential that it be allowed to complete its work.” Ontario Regional Chief Stan Beardy stated, “It’s not only First Nations history but part of the Canadian history overall. We have to educate the general public about this part of our shared history as nations and deal with it collectively as a country.” AADNC News Release | APTN News | AFN News Release| Manitoba News Release | Chiefs of Ontario News Release