Missing Indigenous children: Quebec excavations possible, minister says

The province is home to six former residential schools, and a decision is expected “quickly” with input from families.

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The Quebec government might carry out excavations in the province following the discovery of the remains of 215 First Nations children on the grounds of a former residential school in Kamloops, B.C.

Provincial Indigenous Affairs minister Ian Lafrenière said on Tuesday he is not ruling out the possibility of carrying out such searches if that action is wanted by the families of missing children.

The minister said he is in constant communication with family groups, and a decision on the issue will be taken “quickly.”

In the meantime, Lafrenière said, he has not ordered that potential sites for examination be secured.

Quebec had six residential schools. Four of the sites are now located on First Nations territory and the remaining two in La Tuque and in Amos.

The last school closed its doors in 1991.

“Am I ruling out that there are bodies buried in these areas? The answer is no,” said Lafrenière.

However, he said he wants to proceed in stages, out of respect for families that might have to endure a painful episode.

“We are in contact with the families, with the communities, we’ll see what they want,” he said.