CALGARY: The Canadian Taxpayers Federation's Centre for Aboriginal Policy Change responded today to the federal government's announcement it has issued a request for proposal from private investigators to investigate the claims of former Indian residential school students.

"By hiring private investigators to examine the 5,000 plus claims the federal government will ensure taxpayers only pay compensation on valid claims," said the Centre's director Tanis Fiss.

Prior to the existing Indian Resolution Framework, some payouts were given to Indian school claimants who raised allegations before the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples. In several instances, claimants were not cross-examined, provided no corroboration of testimony and the accused (the government, a church and/or individual) were not able to provide a defence. Nonetheless, compensation was paid.

"For justice to be properly served, it is imperative the accused by given an opportunity to defend themselves," continued Fiss. "In addition, victims of Indian residential school abuse must have their claims properly verified in order to determine appropriate levels of compensation."

To date, the government has spent approximately $125 million on the process and resolved almost 50 cases. Millions more are slated to be spent to settle over 5,000 claims naming nearly 12,000 individuals.

"If crimes were committed in the schools - and some were - the victims of the crimes have the same right as any other citizen to seek redress through the courts. Alleged abusers too, have a right to be heard and to defend themselves. Compensation paid for legitimate claims must be subject to the high standards of proof required by the courts - not out of guilt," concluded Fiss.