Statement of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate
MONTREAL, March 23, 2018 Further to the news article published today, the Oblates of Mary Immaculate state as follows :
"The Oblates of Mary Immaculate are shocked and saddened by the troubling testimonies. We note the courage shown by the alleged victims. These testimonies warrant our attention and compassion.
To begin, the Oblates of Mary Immaculate wish to reiterate that they condemn all forms of physical and psychological violence. They remain determined to apply a "zero tolerance" policy to such behaviour.
The Oblates of Mary Immaculate will participate in any and all activities which may lead to establish the truth in regards to the facts and consequences of the allegations and the testimonies given during the National Inquiry.
The Oblates have accordingly set up a 1-800 number (1-800-450-8701) and an email address ([email protected]), both of which will allow potential victims to express themselves in relation to all forms of physical or psychological violence to which they may have been a party. A committee will thereafter have the mandate to study the testimonies and insure a follow-up.
The Congregation is also willing to offer professional psychological support for any alleged victims.
The Oblates hope to shed light on these allegations as well as accompany the alleged victims on their healing journey in the hopes of overcoming their pain.
We have a long history of service, friendship and cooperation with the First Nations of Canada. Our hope is to continue moving forward with these communities."
About the Oblates of Mary Immaculate
The Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate are a canonical congregation of pontifical right. In 1841, at the request of Msgr Ignace Bourget, the congregation sends its first missionaries to Canada. The Oblates are known in Québec for their commitment to First Nations communities, particularly with the Innus (Montagnais) de la "Côte-Nord." Since 1903, they are responsible for the Our Lady of the Cape Shrine in Trois-Rivièves. They are also active in among other places, Québec, Montréal and Ottawa. The Oblates founded the University of Ottawa in 1848, then known as Bytown College, and oversaw the institution until 1966.
SOURCE Oblats de Marie-Immaculée
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