Prime Minister Announces Additional Funding for St Joseph’s Mission Residential School Investigation During Visit

Additional funding is on the way to help the Williams Lake First Nation uncover more potential unmarked graves.

In January, the Nation announced the findings from the first phase of its geotechnical investigation in to the site of the former St Joseph’s Mission Residential School.

That phase revealed 93 reflections consistent with unmarked graves, over just 14 out of the 480 total hectares being probed in the investigation.

As part of his visit with the Nation today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced an additional $2.9 million in funding to advance those efforts.

Funding will also support further healing efforts in the community.

In addition, the funding will support plans for a temporary commemorative structure, intended to provide a safe space for people to gather and pay respects to those lost in the residential school tragedy.

Prior to the announcement, Trudeau was welcomed to the territory with an exchange of gifts, followed by drumming and dancing.

Trudeau says his visit was to indicate that all of Canada grieves with the Nation, recognizing the deep loss stemming from the legacy of the residential school system.