Financial Compensation Available for Survivors of Ralph Rowe’s Horrific Legacy
On October 30, 2023, Justice Warkentine of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice approved a $13.3 million settlement agreement for the class action claim against Ralph Rowe, Scouts Canada, and the Anglican Synod Diocese of Keewatin. The claim, centered on the pervasive sexual abuse by former Anglican priest and Scout leader Ralph Rowe, was brought by Koskie Minsky LLP on behalf of Indigenous youth.
As of November 30, 2023, the claims period is open for survivors to make their case for financial compensation under the settlement. The claims process will remain open until 2025.
It is alleged in the claim that Ralph Rowe sexually abused Indigenous youth in several remote First Nations in northern Ontario and Manitoba in the 1970s and 1980s. The claim explains that Ralph Rowe’s position as a leader within the church and Scouts Canada facilitated his victimization of children in the communities. The legacy of his actions continues to haunt survivors and their families today.
Canadian law favours financial compensation as a means of addressing past wrongs. The Ralph Rowe class action demonstrates how awkward and insufficient this scheme can be for victims of significant hardship. While it is not an antidote for the abuse endured by his victims, financial compensation acknowledges the resilience of survivors of Ralph Rowe’s abuse and their ongoing work to overcome the profound damage caused by it.
Individuals who were victims of sexual abuse by Ralph Rowe should review the action here, and consider submitting a claim for compensation.
Edwards Bell Jewitt LLP can help you answer questions you may have, or connect you to the Class Action lawyers. Give us a call to discuss at 807 344 1112.
Alternatively, you can reach out directly to the Class Action lawyers (Koskie Minsky LLP) at 1 888 353 6661 and ralphroweclassaction@kmlaw.ca.
Written by Anais M. Giasson
Edwards Bell Jewitt LLP