Former Residential School Supervisor Neil Barry Sentenced to Nine Years for Sexual Assault of a Child

Iqaluit, Nunavut — In a significant ruling underscoring accountability for historical abuses, former residential school supervisor Neil Barry has been sentenced to nine years in prison for the sexual assault of a child. The verdict was delivered in an Iqaluit courtroom, bringing a measure of justice to a victim who endured profound and lasting trauma.

Justice Susan Cooper, presiding over the case, emphasized the grave breach of trust committed by Barry.

During the sentencing, she highlighted the severe and ongoing impact the assault had on the victim, whose courage in coming forward was a central theme throughout the proceedings. The judge noted that the victim's testimony was crucial and painted a harrowing picture of the abuse suffered.

The court heard that Neil Barry was a supervisor at the former Gordon Residential School in Saskatchewan during the 1970s, a period when Indigenous children were forcibly removed from their families and placed in institutions where abuse was rampant.

It was within this deeply flawed system that the assault occurred, compounding the already immense suffering inflicted by the residential school system.

Crown prosecutor Christian Popa had argued for a 10-year sentence, emphasizing the serious nature of the crime and the long-term consequences for the victim.

The defense, seeking a sentence between six and eight years, presented arguments regarding Barry's age and other mitigating factors. However, Justice Cooper’s decision reflected the severe nature of the abuse and the societal responsibility to hold individuals accountable for such egregious acts.

The victim, whose identity is protected by a publication ban, shared a powerful impact statement that detailed the extensive emotional, psychological, and spiritual damage caused by Barry’s actions.

This statement resonated deeply with the court, illustrating how the trauma continues to affect every facet of their life, even decades after the abuse took place.

This sentencing serves as a stark reminder of the dark legacy of Canada's residential school system and the ongoing fight for justice for its survivors.

While no sentence can fully erase the pain and suffering, it is hoped that this outcome provides some closure and affirmation for the victim, and reinforces the message that those who committed such crimes will be held to account, regardless of how much time has passed.