There is a partial win in an attempt to certify a class action lawsuit on behalf of First Nations students who attended the Timber Bay Children’s Home near Montreal Lake.
Attempts to launch the action were thrown out by a lower court judge, but the Saskatchewan court of appeal has ruled it will hear arguments on why the case should go ahead.
The federal government rejected compensation payments to the students because the school fell outside the residential school settlement agreement.
This court action was filed on behalf of the students.
A separate claim by the Lac La Ronge Indian band was rejected but that decision is under appeal.
But band chief Tammy Cook-Searson says the appeal court’s rationale in agreeing to hear the appeal of the class action suit will help the band’s case, as well.
“With this decision, it’s very strong and favourable for our appeal moving forward. So this is really a terrific decision for us and it’s really favourable for our case.”
There is no word on when the appeal will be heard.