Lawyers propose 6-year sentence for former Nunavut priest who sexually abused children

Crown and defence lawyers in the case of a priest who sexually abused children in Nunavut are together recommending he receive a six-year sentence. 

Eric Dejaeger, 77, pleaded guilty earlier this week to six counts of sexually abusing children in Igloolik between 1978 and 1982 — some of them as young as four. 

Victims and supporters packed the benches behind the Crown lawyers Friday as sentencing submissions were read in court. Crown lawyer Emma Baasch went through each of the charges against Dejaeger, outlining the sentences associated with each one. 

Victims had delivered impact statements on Thursday, detailing the abuse they endured as children and how it continues to affect them. On Friday, Baasch said “no sentence can erase the harm.” However, she said that it “brings a dark chapter to light and hopefully to close.”

Scott Cowan, Dejaeger’s defence lawyer, was part of the joint sentencing submission. He stressed the importance of giving the victims a chance to speak in court. 

“The victims had a voice,” he said. 

Both lawyers referenced Justice Robert Kilpatrick’s 2015 sentencing decision, after a court found Dejaeger guilty of 32 counts of child sexual abuse during his time as a priest in Igloolik.

Justice Faiyaz Alibhai said he expects to deliver his decision on sentencing next Thursday. 

For anyone who has been sexually assaulted, there is support available through crisis lines and local support services via the Ending Violence Association of Canada database. ​​If you’re in immediate danger or fear for your safety or that of others around you, please call 911.

If you or someone you know in Nunavut is struggling, the following resources may help:

Kamatsiaqtut Nunavut Help Line (available 24 hours a day): 979-3333 in Iqaluit, or 1-800-265-3333
Healing by Talking counselling program: 1-888-648-0070
Government of Nunavut Employee/Family Assistance Program: 1-800-663-1142
Isaksimagit Inuusirmi Katujjiqatigiit (Embrace Life Council): 1-866-804-2782
Hope for Wellness Help Line: 1-855-242-3310
Victim’s Services: 1-866-456-5216