Home / Crime and Justice / Catholic Schools Settle Abuse Lawsuit for $30 Million
Catholic Schools Settle Abuse Lawsuit for $30 Million
9 Mar
Summary
- A $30-million settlement was reached in a class-action lawsuit against two Catholic schools.
- The settlement covers former students who experienced abuse by Christian Brothers members.
- The B.C. Supreme Court must approve the settlement before compensation is paid.
A $30-million settlement has been proposed in a class-action lawsuit concerning former students of Vancouver College and St. Thomas More. This agreement seeks to resolve claims of abuse experienced by students from these Metro Vancouver Catholic schools. The settlement requires approval from the B.C. Supreme Court, with hearings scheduled for April 30 and May 1, 2026.
Former students who attended Vancouver College between 1976 and 2013, or St. Thomas More between 1976 and 1989, and allege abuse by Christian Brothers members, are eligible to apply for compensation. The lawsuit was initiated by a former Vancouver College student alleging abuse by Edward English, who was also involved in abuse at Newfoundland's Mount Cashel Orphanage.
This settlement includes the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Vancouver, which established the schools. However, some individual defendants, including Edward English, are not part of the agreement, allowing the lawsuit to continue against them. Two tiers of compensation are outlined: a written claim for up to $30,000 for less severe impacts, and a more detailed review for moderate to severe impacts.
St. Thomas More and Vancouver College have stated the settlement is a step toward reconciliation and supporting survivors. The court will also consider legal fees for class counsel, potentially up to one-third of the settlement amount.
