The Ontario government has issued an apology to those who were abused while living at two province-run institutions for those with developmental disabilities.
In a statement, Premier Kathleen Wynne said the government takes responsiblity for those who suffered abuse and neglect while living at the Rideau Regional Centre in Smiths Falls, and the Southwestern Regional Centre near Chatham.
"Families of the residents of the Rideau and Southwestern Regional Centres trusted the government to care for their children, grandchildren, brothers and sisters," the statement reads. "In too many cases, the government failed to uphold this trust."
In the statement, the Premier goes on to say:
"As Premier, and on behalf of all of the people of Ontario, I offer an apology to the men, women and children of Ontario who were failed by a model of institutional care for people with developmental disabilities. The government takes responsibility for your suffering. We are sorry for your pain and loss, and the impact these experiences must have had on your faith in this province, and in your government."
The provincial government closed the Southwestern Regional Centre in 2008 and the Rideau Regional Centre in 2009.
Tentative settlements have been reached in class action lawsuits for former residents of both institutions.
