Crown and defense lawyers in the case of a priest who sexually abused children in Nunavut, recommending he receive a six-year sentence.
Eric Dejaeger, 77, pleaded guilty earlier this week to six counts of sexually abusing children at Igloolik between 1978 and 1982, some of them as young as four.
Victims and supporters packed the benches behind Crown attorneys on Friday as sentencing submissions were read in court. Crown attorney Emma Baasch reviewed each of the charges against Dejaeger, outlining the sentences associated with each.
The victims had delivered impact statements on Thursday, detailing the abuse they suffered as children and how it continues to affect them. On Friday, Baasch said “no prayer can erase the damage.” However, she said it “brings a dark chapter to light and, hopefully, closure.”
Scott Cowan, Dejaeger’s defense attorney, was part of the joint sentencing submission. He stressed the importance of giving victims the opportunity to speak in court.
“The victims had a voice,” he said.
Both attorneys referenced Judge Robert Kilpatrick’s 2015 sentencing decision after a court found Dejaeger guilty of 32 counts of child sexual abuse during his time as a priest at Igloolik.
Judge Faiyaz Alibhai said he expects to give his sentencing decision next Thursday.
For anyone who has been sexually assaulted, support is available through crisis lines and local support services through the Finalize the Canadian Violence Association database. If you are in immediate danger or fear for your safety or the safety of others around you, call 911.
If you or someone you know in Nunavut is struggling, the following resources can help:
- Kamatsiaqtut Nunavut Helpline (available 24 hours a day): 979-3333 in Iqaluit, or 1-800-265-3333
- Conversation Healing Coaching Program: 1-888-648-0070
- Government of Nunavut Employee/Family Assistance Program: 1-800-663-1142
- Isaksimagit Inuusirmi Katujjiqatigiit (Embrace Life Council): 1-866-804-2782
- Hope for Wellness Help Line: 1-855-242-3310
- Victim Services: 1-866-456-5216