$30 Million Settlement in Abuse Class-Action
A $30-million settlement has been reached in a class-action lawsuit involving allegations of abuse at two Catholic schools in Metro Vancouver.
The case centres on former students from Vancouver College and St. Thomas More Collegiate, who claimed they were abused by individuals connected to the institutions decades ago.
The proposed settlement aims to compensate survivors who say they suffered harm while attending the schools.
Lawsuit Began in 2021
The legal action started in 2021 when former Vancouver College student Darren Liptrot filed a lawsuit.
Liptrot alleged he experienced abuse during his time at the school and later sought to expand the case into a class-action lawsuit representing other former students with similar claims.
Over time, more individuals joined the case, leading to negotiations that ultimately produced the settlement agreement.
Allegations Span Several Decades
According to court filings, the allegations involve incidents that took place over multiple decades.
The lawsuit claims that certain staff members or individuals connected to the schools abused students and that institutions failed to adequately protect them.
The settlement does not require an admission of liability, which is common in civil class-action agreements.
Compensation for Survivors
If approved by the court, the $30-million settlement fund will be distributed among eligible survivors.
The exact amount each person receives will depend on factors such as the number of claimants and the severity of the alleged abuse.
Class-action settlements typically include a claims process where former students can submit documentation or testimony about their experiences.
Court Approval Still Required
Before the agreement becomes final, the settlement must receive approval from the Supreme Court of British Columbia.
During the approval hearing, a judge will review whether the settlement is fair and reasonable for those involved.
If approved, the agreement could bring closure to a legal battle that has drawn attention to historical abuse allegations within educational institutions in Metro Vancouver.
For many survivors, the settlement represents an important step toward recognition and accountability.
