We have seen evidence of former child migrants who are psychologically damaged by their experiences in childhood. Therapy and counselling should be available to those who need it. Markedly different views have been expressed to us by former child migrants about the issue of compensation payments. Many believe that such a measure might impede the provision of records if governments or agencies become unduly nervous about the financial consequences of irregularities or indiscretions contained therein. We therefore do not recommend a compensation payment.
Matters concerning identity and background are much more important to former child migrants.
However, we would expect the full weight of the law to be felt in cases where physical and sexual abuse against former child migrants can be proven. Courts should award the maximum possible damages when a conviction is obtained. We would like to see Statutes of Limitation suspended in all cases related to the abuse of former child migrants. Legal aid should be available for all court cases connected with inheritance problems experienced by former child migrants or where redress is sought for past criminal abuse and appropriate evidence is available. We ask the governments of Canada, New Zealand and Australia to consider giving financial support to organisations in their respective countries who represent the interests of former child migrants.