Dozens of individuals who were victims of sexual abuse by Roman Catholic priests in central and western Nova Scotia are on the verge of receiving compensation, nearly four years after the resolution of a class-action lawsuit against the Archdiocese of Halifax-Yarmouth. Lawyers have indicated that checks are expected to be dispatched in mid-September, following concerns earlier this year regarding delays in payouts and perceived lack of communication raised by some claimants and the overseeing judge.
One of the survivors, Timothy Clark, who endured abuse by a priest in the mid-1980s and publicly shared his frustrations with the case earlier this year, expressed relief that the process is nearing its conclusion. While not entirely satisfied with the process, Clark acknowledged a sense of emotional relief as the end nears.
The class-action lawsuit pertains to victims who suffered abuse between 1954 and 2020, with over 65 individuals approved for compensation ranging from $21,799 to $303,294 based on the severity of the abuse and resulting harm. The settlement, approved by Nova Scotia Supreme Court Justice Christa Brothers in November 2022, entails the archdiocese paying $10 million, including $3.2 million to the legal firms involved in the class action.
Issues leading to delays in compensating victims, as explained by lawyers representing both the claimants and the archdiocese, include a late surge in claims toward the end of 2023, necessitating thorough interviews with claimants to clarify details. Additionally, cases requiring adjudication by a third party further contributed to the delay, as payments could only be made once all cases had been assessed to determine the compensation each victim would receive.
Acknowledging the stress endured by survivors throughout the process, one of the lead lawyers, John McKiggan, expressed satisfaction with finally reaching a resolution. He highlighted the challenges faced by victims approved for compensation early on, who had to endure several years of waiting.
Archbishop of Halifax-Yarmouth, Brian Dunn, expressed the archdiocese’s relief at closing this chapter for the victims, emphasizing their commitment to providing compensation. Melanie Comstock, a lawyer representing the archdiocese, lauded the compensation payouts as among the highest in Canada for a class action involving historical abuse. She underscored the fairness of the process to both victims and the church, noting a unique compensation determination approach that allowed claimants flexibility in presenting evidence.
Despite the delays and challenges, Clark, who was abused at 14, emphasized that financial gain was not his primary motivation for joining the class action. He viewed it as an opportunity to bring his experience to light and seek acknowledgment. Grateful for the compensation he will receive, Clark intends to utilize it to alleviate debt incurred in supporting his children’s education.
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