Charles addresses need for reconciliation as he meets Indigenous survivors on tour

ST. JOHN'S, N.L. — Prince Charles and Camilla began a three-day Canadian tour Tuesday in St. John's, N.L., where the prince spoke of the urgent need to come to terms with the “darker and more difficult aspects of the past.”

In a speech delivered in the foyer of the provincial legislature, the prince said the land that became Canada has been cared for by Indigenous people — First Nations, Métis and Inuit — for thousands of years.

“We must find new ways to come to terms with the darker and more difficult aspects of the past, acknowledging, reconciling and striving to do better,” he said. “It is a process that starts with listening.”

Charles said he had spoken with Gov. Gen. Mary Simon about the “vital process” of reconciliation.

“(It's) not a one-off act, of course, but an ongoing commitment to healing, respect and understanding,” he said. “I know that our visit this week comes at an important moment with Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples across Canada, committing to reflect honestly and openly on the past.”

Simon welcomed Charles and Camilla in her first language, Inuktitut. “I encourage you to learn the truth of our history — the good and the bad,” she said.

“In this way, we will promote healing, understanding and respect.”

At the same event, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau noted that the brief tour is also in celebration of the 70th anniversary of the Queen's reign.

— THE CANADIAN PRESS Prince Charles and his wife, Camilla, meet with residential school survivors and elders, in St. John's, N.L. Tuesday during their Royal Tour.