Categories B.C Politics

No Graves Found: $10M Kamloops Investigation Sparks Controversy

Newly revealed financial records show that over $10 million in taxpayer funds allocated to investigate alleged children’s graves at the former Kamloops residential school were instead funneled to consultants, publicists, and unrelated projects. The 2021 investigation into claims of 215 “potential” graves, later revised to 200, has yet to uncover any confirmed remains or forensic evidence.

Spending Breakdown

Initial funding of $7.9 million was given to the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc First Nation for fieldwork, record searches, and securing the school grounds. However, the amount later ballooned to $12.1 million. Financial records, obtained by Blacklock’s Reporter through an Information Commissioner order, reveal troubling details about how the funds were used:

  • $37,500 on marketing
  • $54,000 on travel
  • $405,000 on administrative costs, including speaking fees and tent rentals

The organization spent additional funds on unrelated initiatives like a healing center, museum, and elder’s lodge. They hired consultants to create “communications strategies,” further diverting resources from the core investigation.

No Evidence of Forensic Work

Despite the Department of Crown-Indigenous Relations repeatedly inquiring about exhumation protocols and DNA testing, investigators have not conducted forensic work. This undermines the credibility of the original claims and raises questions about accountability in handling taxpayer money.

National Response and Implications

The alleged discovery of graves in Kamloops had a profound national impact. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed “horror” over the claims, which led to the lowering of flags for 161 days in mourning.. However, the lack of evidence and misuse of funds are now fueling public outrage.

The revelations have led to growing calls for transparency and accountability regarding the investigation. Shouldn’t we focus taxpayer dollars on uncovering the truth, rather than lining consultants’ pockets and funding unrelated projects?

What do you think? Does this misuse of funds undermine the importance of residential school investigations? Share your thoughts in the comments below and follow Canam Network for the latest updates.

About The Author

Kaasvi Bhatia is a Media Studies student at the University of British Columbia with a passion for digital storytelling and content creation.
Outside of work, Kaasvi enjoys playing tennis, running, and spending time with her friends.

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