CSA Class Action Settlement Information
October 21, 2024
Treaty One Territory, Manitoba
AMC Communications
The Claim Registration Period will begin on January 6, 2025, and will stay open for two years.
Summary
If you were a provincially funded child in the care of a Child and Family Services Agency in Manitoba between 2005 and 2019, your legal rights may be affected.
The Flette/Lavallee Class Actions, certified by Manitoba’s Court, seek justice for First Nations children in non-Métis CFS care. On September 6, 2024, court approved $445.2 million in compensation as part of a broader $530 million settlement for three class actions addressing federal Children’s Special Allowances clawed back by Manitoba. These benefits, meant for children in care, mirror Canada Child Benefit payments. Funds will cover claims, legal fees, and charitable purposes
Legal Claims
The Class Actions argue that Manitoba violated its fiduciary responsibilities by forcing Child and Family Services (CFS) Agencies to remit over $335 million in federal Children’s Special Allowance (CSA) payments to the province’s general revenue between 2005 and 2019. These funds, meant exclusively for the care and well-being of children, were illegally clawed back under the “CSA Policy.” The lawsuit asserts that Manitoba’s actions deprived Indigenous children in care of resources meant for their development.
Who is affected
Individuals who were in the care of a Child and Family Services Agency in Manitoba between January 1, 2005, and March 31, 2019, may be impacted. These individuals are likely considered Class Members and may be eligible for compensation. Legal guardians or those responsible for managing a Class Member’s estate or making decisions on their behalf are also affected by this settlement.
Claims Process
The claims registration period will begin on January 6, 2025 and remain open until January 5, 2027. Claim Registration Forms and detailed instructions will be available on January 6, 2025, in various formats: online, downloadable, by mail, or for in-person pickup.
This week’s hearings are a pivotal step towards justice and long-awaited compensation to the First Nations children who were wrongfully denied support. The wrongful taking of funds meant to support vulnerable First Nations children is a clear violation of their rights. We stand firm in our commitment to ensure that justice is served and that those affected receive the compensation they are owed,” said Grand Chief Cathy Merrick, “These lawsuits and the resulting settlement are about more than just monetary compensation; they are about acknowledging the systemic wrongs inflicted upon our children and taking meaningful steps to prevent such injustices in the future. We will continue to fight for the rights of our children and ensure their voices are heard throughout this process.
Important update regarding the Children’s Special Allowance Settlement
As provided by the First Nations Family Advocate Office:
If you were a child under the care of a provincially funded Child and Family Services agency in Manitoba between January 1, 2005 and March 31, 2019, you may qualify as a Class Member in the Children’s Special Allowance Flette-Lavallee Class Action Lawsuit and be eligible for financial compensation.
Please make note of the following important upcoming dates:
- K E Y D A T E S
- September 6, 2024: Court approved the Settlement Agreement
- October 7, 2024: Deadline for appeal
- January 6, 2025: Claim Registration Period begins and Class Members can submit claims
- January 6, 2027: 2-year Claim Registration Period closes
- More information can be found at CSASettlement.com, where you may also register to receive updates via e-mail.
Contact information:
Local: 204-947-7101
Toll Free: 1-844-947-7101
info@CSASettlement.com
www.csasettlement.com