Judge approves $31.5M settlement in sexual assault case against Quebec archdiocese
A Quebec judge approved a $31.5 million settlement for victims of clergy sexual abuse in a class-action lawsuit against the Quebec City archdiocese.Summary
A Quebec Superior Court judge has approved a $31.5 million settlement for sexual assault claimants in a class-action lawsuit against the Quebec City archdiocese, ending a years-long legal battle. The lawsuit, the first of its kind targeting an entire diocese, involves allegations of abuse by priests and laypeople dating back to 1940. Plaintiffs Gaétan Bégin and Pierre Bolduc, who led the case, reported being assaulted as children in the 1950s and 1960s. The archdiocese, along with other defendants including the Seminary of Quebec and AMFQ insurance company, agreed to the out-of-court settlement. Bishop Jean Tailleur apologized to victims in court, acknowledging the church’s responsibility. Victims have three months to submit claims, with payouts determined by retired judges. The case highlights systemic abuse and cover-ups, with plaintiffs alleging the archdiocese failed to act under canon law despite knowing of the abuse. The report was published by The Canadian Press on August 15, 2026.
(Source：SooToday)