Canadian cardinal Marc Ouellet on Friday strongly denied claims of sexual assault made against him and said he was ready to prove his "innocence".&nbsp;Ouellet is accused of abusing a female intern, identified only as "F", from 2008 to 2010, when he was archbishop of Quebec.

The 78-year-old, who was once considered a strong candidate to be pope, was named in court documents this week relating to a class action suit targeting more than 80 members of the clergy in the archdiocese of Quebec.

He rejected the accusations in a statement, a day after the Vatican said it ruled out a formal church investigation.

"Having learnt of the false accusations made against me by the complainant, I strongly deny having made inappropriate gestures towards her," he said.

"I consider the interpretation and circulation of these allegations of sexual assaults to be defamatory.&nbsp;If a civil inquiry is opened, I will actively participate so the truth is established and my innocence is recognised," said the statement in French and Italian published on the Vatican website.

The claims against him in the civil suit, which the Quebec supreme court ruled could go ahead in May, are among the testimonies of 101 people who say they were sexually assaulted by members of the clergy and church staff from 1940 to today.

They surfaced just weeks after Pope Francis visited Canada, where he apologised for the decades-long abuse of Indigenous children in Catholic-run residential schools.

So far, the cardinal is not facing any criminal charges.

No grounds for formal probe

Ouellet's denial comes a day after Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said a "preliminary investigation" already ordered by Pope Francis had found there were "no elements to initiate a trial".

The pontiff went back to the author of that probe, Father Jacques Servais, and was told again there were no grounds for opening a formal investigation.

Ouellet is a prefect of the Congregation for Bishops, one of the most important functions within the Curia, the government of the Vatican.

His accuser claims the cardinal assaulted her multiple times — kissing her, "forcefully" massaging her shoulders, and once sliding his hand along her back to her buttocks.

According to Thursday's Vatican statement, Servais said he had interviewed the woman via Zoom in the presence of a member of the committee.

He was quoted as saying that neither in her report to the pope, nor in the testimony he heard, "did this person make an accusation that would provide material for such an investigation".

Since becoming pope in 2013, Francis has sought to tackle decades-long sexual abuse scandals, although critics insist much more needs to be done.

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Canadian cardinal Marc Ouellet on Friday strongly denied claims of sexual assault made against him and said he was ready to prove his "innocence". Ouellet is accused of abusing a female intern, identified only as "F", from 2008 to 2010, when he was archbishop of Quebec.

Canadian cardinal Marc Ouellet on Friday strongly denied claims of sexual assault made against him and said he was ready to prove his "innocence". Ouellet is accused of abusing a female intern, identified only as "F", from 2008 to 2010, when he was archbishop of Quebec. The 78-year-old, who was once considered a strong candidate to be pope, was named in court documents this week relating to a class action suit targeting more than 80 members of the clergy in the archdiocese of Quebec. He rejected the accusations in a statement, a day after the Vatican said it ruled out a formal church investigation. "Having learnt of the false accusations made against me by the complainant, I strongly deny having made inappropriate gestures towards her," he said. "I consider the interpretation and circulation of these allegations of sexual assaults to be defamatory. If a civil inquiry is opened, I will actively participate so the truth is established and my innocence is recognised," said the statement in French and Italian published on the Vatican website. The claims against him in the civil suit, which the Quebec supreme court ruled could go ahead in May, are among the testimonies of 101 people who say they were sexually assaulted by members of the clergy and church staff from 1940 to today. They surfaced just weeks after Pope Francis visited Canada, where he apologised for the decades-long abuse of Indigenous children in Catholic-run residential schools. So far, the cardinal is not facing any criminal charges. No grounds for formal probe Ouellet's denial comes a day after Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said a "preliminary investigation" already ordered by Pope Francis had found there were "no elements to initiate a trial". The pontiff went back to the author of that probe, Father Jacques Servais, and was told again there were no grounds for opening a formal investigation. Ouellet is a prefect of the Congregation for Bishops, one of the most important functions within the Curia, the government of the Vatican. His accuser claims the cardinal assaulted her multiple times — kissing her, "forcefully" massaging her shoulders, and once sliding his hand along her back to her buttocks. According to Thursday's Vatican statement, Servais said he had interviewed the woman via Zoom in the presence of a member of the committee. He was quoted as saying that neither in her report to the pope, nor in the testimony he heard, "did this person make an accusation that would provide material for such an investigation". Since becoming pope in 2013, Francis has sought to tackle decades-long sexual abuse scandals, although critics insist much more needs to be done. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Canadian cardinal 'strongly denies' sex assault allegations

At a Canadian zoo, feelings are mixed after one wolf pup that escaped after four days was found safely, but another was discovered dead by a road.&nbsp;

Following a strange break-in that released a group of predators from the well-known zoo, conservation officers and zoo personnel in Canada have been searching for a runaway wolf for the past four days.&nbsp;

The Greater Vancouver Zoo announced in a statement on Friday that Tempest, a one-year-old grey wolf, had been discovered and was "back with her family." The statement claimed that she had been found close to the zoo. However, the news was released a day after the zoo reported that Chia, another runaway wolf, had passed away, most likely after being struck by a car.

The zoo added in a statement, "We are so grateful for this positive outcome for Tempest but are still processing the loss of Chia. We are hoping to eventually reopen on Saturday."

On Tuesday morning, the zoo made the announcement that it will be closed to visitors. After "suspicious" damage to the enclosure's fence, it eventually admitted that a group of grey wolves had fled. The incident, according to the zoo, was presumably the product of "malicious intent."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-multiple-times-when-world-leaders-took-to-the-dancefloor-why-blame-sanna-marin-508599">WATCH: Multiple times when world leaders took to the dancefloor, why blame Sanna Marin?</a>

The 120-acre Fraser Valley zoo, which is located outside of Vancouver, is next to a sizable forested region that houses a navy radio communications complex.&nbsp;

Following two attacks—one on a kid who was bit by a black bear and another on a staff member who was attacked by a jaguar—animal rights activists have recently turned their attention to the zoo.

The Vancouver Humane Society published a report in 2019 that criticised the zoo. The zoo's owners invested millions in the building's "major overhaul" in 2020.&nbsp;

The alleged act of vandalism occurs as activists raise awareness of the condition of wolves, which were once common in the area. The province's airborne wolf cull was extended this year for an additional five years. As many as 300 wolves may be killed annually by the contentious programme in an effort to conserve woodland caribou.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

At a Canadian zoo, feelings are mixed after one wolf pup that escaped after four days was found safely, but another was discovered dead by a road. Following a strange break-in that released a group of predators from the well-known zoo, conservation officers and zoo personnel in Canada have been searching for a runaway wolf for the past four days.

At a Canadian zoo, feelings are mixed after one wolf pup that escaped after four days was found safely, but another was discovered dead by a road. Following a strange break-in that released a group of predators from the well-known zoo, conservation officers and zoo personnel in Canada have been searching for a runaway wolf for the past four days. The Greater Vancouver Zoo announced in a statement on Friday that Tempest, a one-year-old grey wolf, had been discovered and was "back with her family." The statement claimed that she had been found close to the zoo. However, the news was released a day after the zoo reported that Chia, another runaway wolf, had passed away, most likely after being struck by a car. The zoo added in a statement, "We are so grateful for this positive outcome for Tempest but are still processing the loss of Chia. We are hoping to eventually reopen on Saturday." On Tuesday morning, the zoo made the announcement that it will be closed to visitors. After "suspicious" damage to the enclosure's fence, it eventually admitted that a group of grey wolves had fled. The incident, according to the zoo, was presumably the product of "malicious intent." Also Read: WATCH: Multiple times when world leaders took to the dancefloor, why blame Sanna Marin? The 120-acre Fraser Valley zoo, which is located outside of Vancouver, is next to a sizable forested region that houses a navy radio communications complex. Following two attacks—one on a kid who was bit by a black bear and another on a staff member who was attacked by a jaguar—animal rights activists have recently turned their attention to the zoo. The Vancouver Humane Society published a report in 2019 that criticised the zoo. The zoo's owners invested millions in the building's "major overhaul" in 2020. The alleged act of vandalism occurs as activists raise awareness of the condition of wolves, which were once common in the area. The province's airborne wolf cull was extended this year for an additional five years. As many as 300 wolves may be killed annually by the contentious programme in an effort to conserve woodland caribou. (with inputs from agencies)

Runaway wolf pup located safely after mysterious break-in freed them in Canadian zoo

Canadian Cardinal Marc Ouellet who was once considered a strong candidate to be Pope has been accused of sexual assault. This comes as part of a class-action suit targeting more than 80 members of the Clergy in the Archdiocese of Quebec.

Canadian Cardinal Marc Ouellet accused of sexual assault

Hockey Canada is mired in a sex scandal. It faces accusations of settling a sexual assault lawsuit against 8 players of the junior team. What's worse, the lawsuit was settled with the registration fee aspiring players pay to pursue their dreams. Palki Sharma explains.

Gravitas: Canada Ice Hockey mired in sexual abuse scandal

Weeks after Pope Francis returned from a six-day trip to Canada where he apologised to victims of sexual abuse by the Church, a Canadian cardinal named Marc Ouellet, regarded as a potential successor to him and having a high-ranking position within the Vatican has been accused of sexual assault.

Reportedly, a class action lawsuit has been filed against Cardinal Ouellet and more than 88 members of the clergy in the Quebec diocese. More than 100 victims have lent their weight to the civil lawsuit where some damning claims have been made.

Ouellet's name had not come up in the lawsuit up until now but according to court documents, an alleged victim, identified as 'F' stated that she was interning as a pastoral agent between 2008 and 2010 when the series of assaults by Ouellet took place. The victim added that most of the assaults took place during public events.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pope-in-canada-to-apologise-for-abuse-of-indigenous-children-500358">Pope in Canada to apologise for abuse of indigenous children</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pope-in-canada-to-apologise-for-abuse-of-indigenous-children-500358/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Ouellet was the archbishop and head of the archdiocese at the time, parachuted from Rome. He had the authority to hire individuals as pastoral agents and thus his strong position may have forced the victim to keep quiet.

"He grabbed me and then...his hands on my back, they went down pretty low. Quite intrusive for, let's say for someone who is my superior, who is the archbishop of Quebec." said the victim on a Radio show.&nbsp;

"I felt chased after. It became more and more invasive, more and more intense to the point where I stopped attending events. I tried avoiding being in his presence as much as possible," the victim further added.&nbsp;

Read more:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/listening-to-evil-committed-at-catholic-run-schools-in-canada-felt-like-a-slap-pope-503332">&nbsp;Listening to 'evil' committed at Catholic-run schools in Canada felt like slaps: Pope</a>

The court documents further reveal that the victim went to the committee in charge of reviewing sexual allegations 10 years later where she shared her story.

The committee believed her and told her to file a complaint. The committee went to the Vatican in 2021 and filed the complaint. A virtual meeting was arranged between the victim and the Vatican church.

However, more than a year after the meeting, nothing has come out of it as Ouellet continues to hold a prominent public image.&nbsp;

It is pertinent to note that most of the 100-odd victims were sexually abused when they were minors by the priests and other staff with cases dating back to the 1940s.&nbsp;

With the victim 'F' shedding light on Ouellet, one of the big fishes, it is expected to open a pandora's box. In most cases, the abuser has not committed a sexual offence for the first time.

Lawyers representing the plaintiffs believe that more such cases may be unearthed as the lawsuit receives public exposure.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

 
&nbsp;

Weeks after Pope Francis returned from a six-day trip to Canada where he apologised to victims of sexual abuse by the Church, a Canadian cardinal named Marc Ouellet, regarded as a potential successor to him and having a high-ranking position within the Vatican has been accused of sexual assault.

Weeks after Pope Francis returned from a six-day trip to Canada where he apologised to victims of sexual abuse by the Church, a Canadian cardinal named Marc Ouellet, regarded as a potential successor to him and having a high-ranking position within the Vatican has been accused of sexual assault. Reportedly, a class action lawsuit has been filed against Cardinal Ouellet and more than 88 members of the clergy in the Quebec diocese. More than 100 victims have lent their weight to the civil lawsuit where some damning claims have been made. Ouellet's name had not come up in the lawsuit up until now but according to court documents, an alleged victim, identified as 'F' stated that she was interning as a pastoral agent between 2008 and 2010 when the series of assaults by Ouellet took place. The victim added that most of the assaults took place during public events. WATCH | Pope in Canada to apologise for abuse of indigenous children × Ouellet was the archbishop and head of the archdiocese at the time, parachuted from Rome. He had the authority to hire individuals as pastoral agents and thus his strong position may have forced the victim to keep quiet. "He grabbed me and then...his hands on my back, they went down pretty low. Quite intrusive for, let's say for someone who is my superior, who is the archbishop of Quebec." said the victim on a Radio show. "I felt chased after. It became more and more invasive, more and more intense to the point where I stopped attending events. I tried avoiding being in his presence as much as possible," the victim further added. Read more: Listening to 'evil' committed at Catholic-run schools in Canada felt like slaps: Pope The court documents further reveal that the victim went to the committee in charge of reviewing sexual allegations 10 years later where she shared her story. The committee believed her and told her to file a complaint. The committee went to the Vatican in 2021 and filed the complaint. A virtual meeting was arranged between the victim and the Vatican church. However, more than a year after the meeting, nothing has come out of it as Ouellet continues to hold a prominent public image. It is pertinent to note that most of the 100-odd victims were sexually abused when they were minors by the priests and other staff with cases dating back to the 1940s. With the victim 'F' shedding light on Ouellet, one of the big fishes, it is expected to open a pandora's box. In most cases, the abuser has not committed a sexual offence for the first time. Lawyers representing the plaintiffs believe that more such cases may be unearthed as the lawsuit receives public exposure. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Canada: Weeks after Pope's visit, a prominent cardinal named in a sexual assault class lawsuit

Hockey Canada is mired in a sex scandal. It faces accusations of settling a sexual assault lawsuit against 8 players of the junior team. The future of Hockey Canada is in peril!

Future of Hockey Canada in peril after sport's governing body hid sex abuse lawsuits

Skywatchers in Canada and UK witness breathtaking views of Northern Lights - see pics

August 9: Int'l Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples Does Pope's apology to Indigenous peoples in Canada bring closure to the community? Will the Queen ever apologise for sexual abuse in Canadian schools? Watch Canada's Cultural Genocide: Are apologies enough?

WION Wideangle | Canada's Cultural Genocide: Are apologies enough?

Does Pope's apology to Indigenous peoples in Canada bring closure to the community? Will Queen Elizabeth II ever apologise for sexual abuse in Canadian schools? Watch Canada's Cultural Genocide: Are apologies enough? on WION Wideangle

WION Wideangle | Canada's cultural genocide: Are apologies enough?

In a move designed to indirectly achieve the goals of a gun control legislation proposed in May, Canada announced Friday it will ban the import of handguns beginning on August 19.

Announcing the move, Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino told a press briefing, "Such guns have one purpose and one purpose only and that is to kill people."

After the freeze was announced, Canadians rushed to buy guns as the government now wants to prevent gun sellers from restocking their inventory with this import ban.

According to Foreign Minister Melanie Joly, "The import ban announced today will help to keep guns stay off our streets as we work towards implementing Bill C-21, reducing gun violence in the immediate term."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/canada-sees-a-surge-in-handgun-sales-as-canadians-rush-to-buy-guns-before-the-new-law-is-implemented-485210/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Pointing to the smuggling of guns from the neighbouring United States as the real problem, experts remain skeptical about the effectiveness of gun control measures taken by Ottawa.

Following the interception of gun parts from two locations in British Columbia, the Canada Border Services Agency highlighted that ghost guns pose a serious risk as they are difficult to trace when used by criminals and are becoming easier to manufacture.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau unveiled a proposed national handgun ownership freeze in May after high-profile mass shootings in Texas and New York.

In comparison to the United States, Canada has much stricter gun laws, and restricted or prohibited firearms also need to be registered in the country.

Data from Statistics Canada shows that the country's gun homicide rate was a fraction of the rate in the United States in 2020.

Between 2009 and 2020, handguns were the main weapon used in the majority of firearm-related violent crimes as per official data.

(With inputs from agencies)

Watch WION's live TV here:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

In a move designed to indirectly achieve the goals of a gun control legislation proposed in May, Canada announced Friday it will ban the import of handguns beginning on August 19.

In a move designed to indirectly achieve the goals of a gun control legislation proposed in May, Canada announced Friday it will ban the import of handguns beginning on August 19. Announcing the move, Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino told a press briefing, "Such guns have one purpose and one purpose only and that is to kill people." After the freeze was announced, Canadians rushed to buy guns as the government now wants to prevent gun sellers from restocking their inventory with this import ban. According to Foreign Minister Melanie Joly, "The import ban announced today will help to keep guns stay off our streets as we work towards implementing Bill C-21, reducing gun violence in the immediate term." × Pointing to the smuggling of guns from the neighbouring United States as the real problem, experts remain skeptical about the effectiveness of gun control measures taken by Ottawa. Following the interception of gun parts from two locations in British Columbia, the Canada Border Services Agency highlighted that ghost guns pose a serious risk as they are difficult to trace when used by criminals and are becoming easier to manufacture. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau unveiled a proposed national handgun ownership freeze in May after high-profile mass shootings in Texas and New York. In comparison to the United States, Canada has much stricter gun laws, and restricted or prohibited firearms also need to be registered in the country. Data from Statistics Canada shows that the country's gun homicide rate was a fraction of the rate in the United States in 2020. Between 2009 and 2020, handguns were the main weapon used in the majority of firearm-related violent crimes as per official data. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

Canada announces ban on import of handguns until passage of gun control law

Canada has announced banning of handgun imports which will begin from the 19th of August. The ban comes in months after Justin Trudeau's government proposed a national handgun ownership fees.

Canada bans handgun imports

According to Canadian Justice Minister David Lametti, Canada has asked for the extradition of a French priest who is accused of molesting Indigenous children more than 30 years ago. Lametti said in an email to AFP, "I am aware that an extradition request sent to France has been made public, which ministry officials have just confirmed. It is important for Canada and its international partners that serious crimes are fully investigated and prosecuted."

The request was acknowledged as having been received by the French Foreign Ministry, which added that justice officials were handling it. The announcement follows Pope Francis' historic visit to Canada, where he expressed regret for the decades-long abuse of Indigenous children in Catholic-run schools.

A new complaint for a sexual assault that took place about 47 years ago was made in September, and as a result, an arrest warrant for priest Johannes Rivoire, who spent three decades in Canada's far north, has been out there since February. Authorities have not disclosed the number of suspected victims, and he has never been charged.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-hanging-drowning-holding-on-ravaging-kentucky-floods-lead-to-dramatic-rescues-503448">In pics | Hanging, drowning, holding on: Ravaging Kentucky floods lead to dramatic rescues</a>

Between 1998 and 2017, Rivoire was the target of an arrest warrant for the sex abuse of three juveniles. It was never implemented. The priest moved to Lyon, France, from Canada in 1993. According to a person familiar with the issue, Rivoire's dual citizenship poses "a problem" because it is "very complicated" to extradite French citizens. In recent media interviews, the 93-year-old priest insisted he is innocent. His case continues to serve as a symbol of the Church's tolerance of sexual abuse in the northern part of Canada.

(with inputs from agencies)

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

According to Canadian Justice Minister David Lametti, Canada has asked for the extradition of a French priest who is accused of molesting Indigenous children more than 30 years ago.

According to Canadian Justice Minister David Lametti, Canada has asked for the extradition of a French priest who is accused of molesting Indigenous children more than 30 years ago. Lametti said in an email to AFP, "I am aware that an extradition request sent to France has been made public, which ministry officials have just confirmed. It is important for Canada and its international partners that serious crimes are fully investigated and prosecuted." The request was acknowledged as having been received by the French Foreign Ministry, which added that justice officials were handling it. The announcement follows Pope Francis' historic visit to Canada, where he expressed regret for the decades-long abuse of Indigenous children in Catholic-run schools. A new complaint for a sexual assault that took place about 47 years ago was made in September, and as a result, an arrest warrant for priest Johannes Rivoire, who spent three decades in Canada's far north, has been out there since February. Authorities have not disclosed the number of suspected victims, and he has never been charged. Also Read: In pics | Hanging, drowning, holding on: Ravaging Kentucky floods lead to dramatic rescues Between 1998 and 2017, Rivoire was the target of an arrest warrant for the sex abuse of three juveniles. It was never implemented. The priest moved to Lyon, France, from Canada in 1993. According to a person familiar with the issue, Rivoire's dual citizenship poses "a problem" because it is "very complicated" to extradite French citizens. In recent media interviews, the 93-year-old priest insisted he is innocent. His case continues to serve as a symbol of the Church's tolerance of sexual abuse in the northern part of Canada. (with inputs from agencies)

Canada requests extradition of French priest accused of molesting indigenous children

The Commonwealth Games (CWG) 2022 edition is living upto expectations. So far, a lot of action and drama has taken place in every sports and viewership has been top-notch worldwide. In hockey, the men's and women's category is progressing towards the semi-final rounds but the group stages have already given&nbsp;plenty of big moments to&nbsp;fans.

During Canada and England men's clash, on Thursday (August 04), tempers flared between Canadian defender&nbsp;Balraj Panesar and England striker&nbsp;Chris Griffith. Their altercation made heads turn as Bajraj grabbed the Englishman by his collar during the final few minutes of the proceedings in Birmingham, England.

The exact reason behind the fight is not known, however, it was quite an ugly scene as the duo were separated by&nbsp;other players.

Here's the viral video:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
WATCH: Canada <a href="https://twitter.com/FieldHockeyCan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FieldHockeyCan</a> defender Balraj Panesar was shown the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RedCard?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RedCard</a> during their final group stage <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Hockey?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Hockey</a> match against <a href="https://twitter.com/EnglandHockey?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EnglandHockey</a> at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWG22?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWG22</a>. <a href="https://t.co/zl1RCdG5Io">pic.twitter.com/zl1RCdG5Io</a>
— BNN Canada (@BNNCA) <a href="https://twitter.com/BNNCA/status/1555424238332686336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 5, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-sf-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-cwg-2022-womens-hockey-match-in-india-503974">India vs Australia SF live streaming: When and where to watch CWG 2022 women's hockey match in India?</a>

Following the tussle, Balraj faced the brunt of his action and was shown the red card. Griffith was also punished by the officials and the 31-year-old was handed a yellow card. Talking about the clash, Canada were no match to England as the home side thrashed them 11-2 and ended at the second spot in Pool B, with Manpreet Singh-led India topping&nbsp;the group.

India will now face South Africa whereas England will lock horns with Australia in the men's hockey semi-finals.

The Commonwealth Games (CWG) 2022 edition is living upto expectations. So far, a lot of action and drama has taken place in every sports and viewership has been top-notch worldwide.

The Commonwealth Games (CWG) 2022 edition is living upto expectations. So far, a lot of action and drama has taken place in every sports and viewership has been top-notch worldwide. In hockey, the men's and women's category is progressing towards the semi-final rounds but the group stages have already given plenty of big moments to fans. During Canada and England men's clash, on Thursday (August 04), tempers flared between Canadian defender Balraj Panesar and England striker Chris Griffith. Their altercation made heads turn as Bajraj grabbed the Englishman by his collar during the final few minutes of the proceedings in Birmingham, England. The exact reason behind the fight is not known, however, it was quite an ugly scene as the duo were separated by other players. Here's the viral video: WATCH: Canada @FieldHockeyCan defender Balraj Panesar was shown the #RedCard during their final group stage #Hockey match against @EnglandHockey at #CWG22. pic.twitter.com/zl1RCdG5Io — BNN Canada (@BNNCA) August 5, 2022 × ALSO READ | India vs Australia SF live streaming: When and where to watch CWG 2022 women's hockey match in India? Following the tussle, Balraj faced the brunt of his action and was shown the red card. Griffith was also punished by the officials and the 31-year-old was handed a yellow card. Talking about the clash, Canada were no match to England as the home side thrashed them 11-2 and ended at the second spot in Pool B, with Manpreet Singh-led India topping the group. India will now face South Africa whereas England will lock horns with Australia in the men's hockey semi-finals.

CWG'22: Canada's Balraj Panesar makes heads turn, grabs England forward Chris Griffiths by collar - WATCH

Pope Francis, who returned on Saturday from a six-day trip to Canada, has said that listening to tales of abuse at Catholic-run schools from Indigenous victims&nbsp;felt like "slaps". Speaking at the weekly general address at the Vatican on Wednesday, the pontiff said, "I assure you that in these meetings, particularly the last one, I&nbsp;felt those people's pain like slaps."

He further said that the church needs to&nbsp;face up to its responsibility for such institutions that abused children.

During his Canada visit, the pope met representatives of the First Nations, Metis and Inuit people and apologised to them for what he termed "evil" committed at Catholic-run residential schools,&nbsp;AFP reported.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-unmarked-indigenous-graves-found-at-yet-another-canadian-school-more-that-1300-graves-since-may-2021-453607">More unmarked indigenous graves found at yet another Canadian school; 1300 graves since May 2021</a>

 
From late 1800s to 1996, around 150,000 Native children in Canada attended residential schools run by the church. Most of these students were subjected to physical and sexual abuse and reportedly died of disease, malnutrition and neglect.

 
The matter made headlines after hundreds of unmarked graves were found on the sites of these schools.&nbsp;Over 1,300 such graves were discovered at these sites till last year.

 
The 85 year old, who termed the horrific incident a “genocide,” said, listening to elderly people who lost their children and don't know where they ended up because of the assimilation policy, was "a painful moment".

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/canada-south-asian-communities-may-have-suffered-most-during-pandemic-says-study-495404">Canada: South Asian communities may have suffered most during pandemic, says study</a>

 
During his trip, Pope Francis had also apologized for Catholic Church’s role in forcing Native people to attend Indigenous residential schools to assimilate into the Christian society.

Ottawa has also admitted that Indigenous students were beaten for speaking their own language at these schools, and&nbsp;sexually abused.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Pope Francis, who returned on Saturday from a six-day trip to Canada, has said that listening to tales of abuse at Catholic-run schools from Indigenous victims felt like "slaps".

Pope Francis, who returned on Saturday from a six-day trip to Canada, has said that listening to tales of abuse at Catholic-run schools from Indigenous victims felt like "slaps". Speaking at the weekly general address at the Vatican on Wednesday, the pontiff said, "I assure you that in these meetings, particularly the last one, I felt those people's pain like slaps." He further said that the church needs to face up to its responsibility for such institutions that abused children. During his Canada visit, the pope met representatives of the First Nations, Metis and Inuit people and apologised to them for what he termed "evil" committed at Catholic-run residential schools, AFP reported. Also Read | More unmarked indigenous graves found at yet another Canadian school; 1300 graves since May 2021 From late 1800s to 1996, around 150,000 Native children in Canada attended residential schools run by the church. Most of these students were subjected to physical and sexual abuse and reportedly died of disease, malnutrition and neglect. The matter made headlines after hundreds of unmarked graves were found on the sites of these schools. Over 1,300 such graves were discovered at these sites till last year. The 85 year old, who termed the horrific incident a “genocide,” said, listening to elderly people who lost their children and don't know where they ended up because of the assimilation policy, was "a painful moment". Also Read | Canada: South Asian communities may have suffered most during pandemic, says study During his trip, Pope Francis had also apologized for Catholic Church’s role in forcing Native people to attend Indigenous residential schools to assimilate into the Christian society. Ottawa has also admitted that Indigenous students were beaten for speaking their own language at these schools, and sexually abused. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Listening to 'evil' committed at Catholic-run schools in Canada felt like slaps: Pope

A rampaging bull trampling a fellow human can be a nausea-inducing sight for most, forcing them to leave the spot, but for an Indo-Canadian politician named Leela Aheer, it was a moment of heroism.

A rampaging bull trampling a fellow human can be a nausea-inducing sight for most, forcing them to leave the spot, but for an Indo-Canadian politician named Leela Aheer, it was a moment of heroism. Reportedly, during the annual running of the bulls event at the Strathmore Stampede, a City-wide rodeo tradition, held since 2003, a bull went ballistic and charged at a male spectator, flinging him to the ground with its sharp pair of horns. As the man crumbled to the ground, the rampaging bull charged toward him once again and tried to inflict further damage. However, this was the moment that Aheer, wearing her cowboy hat, jumped from the fence and went toe-to-toe with the bull. For a good, four-five seconds, the bull refused to budge but Aheer stood there and continued to push the bull away. "It was like trying to push a car," said Aheer when quizzed about her attempt to move the bull. Soon, Aheer's perseverance paid off as she managed to drag the young man away from the clutches of the maniac bull as the crowd applauded her feat. If you ever wonder what kind of leader @LeelaAheer would be… Yesterday she grabbed a bull. Jumped right in front of it. Pushed it, to save someone who was stuck under. She did not hesitate one minute. This is my friend. And this is who I want as a leader#ableg #abpoli pic.twitter.com/MGRVonSlMV — Sarah Biggs (@sarahbyyc) August 1, 2022 × "I literally didn't think about it. It's a mom thing, I guess. I just jumped in front of the bull and tried to distract him." Aheer said when asked about her act of bravery. Fortunately, both the bull and the young man were safe after the accident, even though the latter had a lot of scratches and scrapes. According to local reports, the man had scooched under the bull which meant that the animal was not able to penetrate its horns, thereby minimizing the damage, which, otherwise could have been fatal. Read More: Canada: South Asian communities may have suffered most during pandemic, says study It is pertinent to note that Aheer is a former provincial minister. She is among a group of candidates, currently contesting for the leadership of the ruling party of Alberta i.e United Conservative Party. If Aheer wins the election, she will become the premier of Alberta. Her bravery has already made her a star on social media platforms. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Heroic Indo-Canadian politician saves the life of a young man from a rampaging bull

After a six-day trip to Canada, Pope Francis admitted that he needs to cut down on travel as he cannot maintain his pace and may have to think about retiring.

Pope Francis says he needs to slow down travel or consider retirement

Pope Francis has said Canada trip showed he may need to slow down. As per report, multiple living popes would challenge Catholic beliefs.

Pope Francis says he may cut down on travel

Pope Francis said that he needs to cut down his pace of travel and may even quit as he returned from a six-day trip, calling the decades-long abuse of Indigenous youngsters in Canada "genocide." The 85-year-old pope extended a historic apology to the First Nations, Metis, and Inuit people for what he called the "evil" carried out at Catholic-run residential schools during his "penitential pilgrimage" across Canada this week.

The leader of the 1.3 billion Catholics in the world described the treatment of children who were uprooted from their homes and cultures in order to attend state schools as "genocide" in a statement to the media upon his return home. As he explained to reporters the word "I did describe the genocide. And I asked for forgiveness for this process which was genocide&nbsp;".

He stated, "Taking away children, changing the culture, changing the mentality, changing the traditions, changing a race, let's put it that way, a whole culture." Although most Canadians, from western Alberta to Quebec and the far north, applauded Francis's historic apology, many survivors argued that much more needed to be done to promote peace.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/how-wickedest-city-on-earth-was-submerged-by-natures-wrath-502021">How ‘wickedest city on earth’ was submerged by nature's wrath</a>

The pope visited Canada for the 37th time since his election in 2013, although he acknowledged he would have to slow down because of knee issues that required him to spend a large portion of the trip in a wheelchair. Francis has already stated that, if necessary, he could follow his predecessor Benedict XVI, who made history in 2013 by stepping down because of his deteriorating health.

(with inputs from agencies)

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

Pope Francis said that he needs to cut down his pace of travel and may even quit as he returned from a six-day trip, calling the decades-long abuse of Indigenous youngsters in Canada "genocide.

Pope Francis said that he needs to cut down his pace of travel and may even quit as he returned from a six-day trip, calling the decades-long abuse of Indigenous youngsters in Canada "genocide." The 85-year-old pope extended a historic apology to the First Nations, Metis, and Inuit people for what he called the "evil" carried out at Catholic-run residential schools during his "penitential pilgrimage" across Canada this week. The leader of the 1.3 billion Catholics in the world described the treatment of children who were uprooted from their homes and cultures in order to attend state schools as "genocide" in a statement to the media upon his return home. As he explained to reporters the word "I did describe the genocide. And I asked for forgiveness for this process which was genocide ". He stated, "Taking away children, changing the culture, changing the mentality, changing the traditions, changing a race, let's put it that way, a whole culture." Although most Canadians, from western Alberta to Quebec and the far north, applauded Francis's historic apology, many survivors argued that much more needed to be done to promote peace. Also Read: How ‘wickedest city on earth’ was submerged by nature's wrath The pope visited Canada for the 37th time since his election in 2013, although he acknowledged he would have to slow down because of knee issues that required him to spend a large portion of the trip in a wheelchair. Francis has already stated that, if necessary, he could follow his predecessor Benedict XVI, who made history in 2013 by stepping down because of his deteriorating health. (with inputs from agencies)

Pope refers to abuse of indigenous people in Canada as 'genocide'

When Pope Francis arrived at Maskwacis, Alberta to mark the first day of “penitential pilgrimage” to Canada, the attention was not on the holy reverend, but on Si Pih Ko, a Cree woman from Manitoba province, who gave a powerful performance with her song.

The moment was poignant, as an indigenous woman was giving an emotional performance in Cree to the tune of Canada’s national anthem.

The Pope is in Canada to apologise to indigenous people for abuse in government schools run by the Roman Catholic church.

The visit comes in the backdrop of a 2015 Truth and Reconciliation Commission report becoming&nbsp;public which found that these residential schools forcibly separated indigenous children from their parents as part of an effort to convert them to Christianity and assimilate them into the wider Canadian culture.

A total of 150,000 children from Canada’s First Nations tribes were placed in 139 schools run under government contract — most by the Catholic Church — over a 150-year period.

The report said that these schools committed “cultural genocide” and were designed “not to educate” the Indigenous children, “but primarily to break their link to their culture and identity”.&nbsp;

Hence on Monday, when the Pope arrived in Maskwacis, Alberta, she couldn’t control her emotions.

But what ticked her off was the fact that Pope donned a gifted feathered headdress without first removing his skullcap—something she saw as disrespectful.

“He didn’t remove his law before allowing our law to be placed on his head,” she told Reuters by phone from Winnipeg.

The 45-year-old ended her song with a statement on indigenous law, fist raised, before turning her back and walking away as Francis stood and watched.

“It felt good, being able to just sing it and speak it. And he could not destroy it in me,” she was quoted as saying.

She said that she was not at the event to hear the pope’s apology but “to have that opportunity to speak the law to him. No apology will ever make things right.”

She was aware that she would be “speaking the law” to the pope somehow, but added, “I didn’t think it would be right in the centre, hand up like that.”

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

When Pope Francis arrived at Maskwacis, Alberta to mark the first day of “penitential pilgrimage” to Canada, the attention was not on the holy reverend, but on Si Pih Ko, a Cree woman from Manitoba province, who gave a powerful performance with her song.

When Pope Francis arrived at Maskwacis, Alberta to mark the first day of “penitential pilgrimage” to Canada, the attention was not on the holy reverend, but on Si Pih Ko, a Cree woman from Manitoba province, who gave a powerful performance with her song. The moment was poignant, as an indigenous woman was giving an emotional performance in Cree to the tune of Canada’s national anthem. The Pope is in Canada to apologise to indigenous people for abuse in government schools run by the Roman Catholic church. The visit comes in the backdrop of a 2015 Truth and Reconciliation Commission report becoming public which found that these residential schools forcibly separated indigenous children from their parents as part of an effort to convert them to Christianity and assimilate them into the wider Canadian culture. A total of 150,000 children from Canada’s First Nations tribes were placed in 139 schools run under government contract — most by the Catholic Church — over a 150-year period. The report said that these schools committed “cultural genocide” and were designed “not to educate” the Indigenous children, “but primarily to break their link to their culture and identity”. Hence on Monday, when the Pope arrived in Maskwacis, Alberta, she couldn’t control her emotions. But what ticked her off was the fact that Pope donned a gifted feathered headdress without first removing his skullcap—something she saw as disrespectful. “He didn’t remove his law before allowing our law to be placed on his head,” she told Reuters by phone from Winnipeg. The 45-year-old ended her song with a statement on indigenous law, fist raised, before turning her back and walking away as Francis stood and watched. “It felt good, being able to just sing it and speak it. And he could not destroy it in me,” she was quoted as saying. She said that she was not at the event to hear the pope’s apology but “to have that opportunity to speak the law to him. No apology will ever make things right.” She was aware that she would be “speaking the law” to the pope somehow, but added, “I didn’t think it would be right in the centre, hand up like that.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Cree woman reveals why she ‘spoke the law' to Pope Francis

Pope Francis addressed a serious wound that many survivors wanted him to address during his apology trip to Canada on Thursday by pleading for forgiveness for sexual abuse at Catholic-run schools for indigenous children in Canada. The pope declared that the Church in Canada was on a new path after being "devastated by the evil perpetrated by some of its sons and daughters" during a nighttime vespers service with priests and nuns in the Quebec City cathedral.

As reported by Reuters, the pope said on the penultimate day of his six-day visit to Canada, "I think in particular of the sexual abuse of minors and vulnerable people, scandals that require firm action and an irreversible commitment. Together with you, I would like once more to ask forgiveness of all the victims. The pain and the shame we feel must become an occasion for conversion: never again!"

More than 150,000 indigenous children were taken away from their families and enrolled in schools between 1870 and 1996. It was the first time the pope had publicly addressed the issue of sexual abuse at schools. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada dubbed the practice "cultural genocide" because it resulted in the starvation or beating of the kids for speaking their native tongues, as well as the sexual assault of many of them.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-kentucky-floods-8-killed-people-stranded-on-rooftops-and-trees-501712">In pics| Kentucky floods: 8 killed, people stranded on rooftops and trees</a>

The remarks follow the pope's historic apology on Monday at Maskwacis, the location of two former schools, in which he branded the Church's involvement in the schools and the forced cultural assimilation they tried a "deplorable evil" and "disastrous error." However, despite provoking strong feelings and being praised as the first step in reconciliation, that apology was also criticised by survivors for falling short of their expectations. One of their complaints was that sexual abuse wasn't mentioned.

(with inputs from agencies)

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

Pope Francis addressed a serious wound that many survivors wanted him to address during his apology trip to Canada on Thursday by pleading for forgiveness for sexual abuse at Catholic-run schools for indigenous children in Canada.

Pope Francis addressed a serious wound that many survivors wanted him to address during his apology trip to Canada on Thursday by pleading for forgiveness for sexual abuse at Catholic-run schools for indigenous children in Canada. The pope declared that the Church in Canada was on a new path after being "devastated by the evil perpetrated by some of its sons and daughters" during a nighttime vespers service with priests and nuns in the Quebec City cathedral. As reported by Reuters, the pope said on the penultimate day of his six-day visit to Canada, "I think in particular of the sexual abuse of minors and vulnerable people, scandals that require firm action and an irreversible commitment. Together with you, I would like once more to ask forgiveness of all the victims. The pain and the shame we feel must become an occasion for conversion: never again!" More than 150,000 indigenous children were taken away from their families and enrolled in schools between 1870 and 1996. It was the first time the pope had publicly addressed the issue of sexual abuse at schools. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada dubbed the practice "cultural genocide" because it resulted in the starvation or beating of the kids for speaking their native tongues, as well as the sexual assault of many of them. Also Read: In pics| Kentucky floods: 8 killed, people stranded on rooftops and trees The remarks follow the pope's historic apology on Monday at Maskwacis, the location of two former schools, in which he branded the Church's involvement in the schools and the forced cultural assimilation they tried a "deplorable evil" and "disastrous error." However, despite provoking strong feelings and being praised as the first step in reconciliation, that apology was also criticised by survivors for falling short of their expectations. One of their complaints was that sexual abuse wasn't mentioned. (with inputs from agencies)

Pope seeks forgiveness for 'sexual abuse of minors and vulnerable people' at residential schools in Canada

Pope Francis recently apologised for the abuses inflicted on the Indigenous peoples&nbsp;of Canada. But the Canadian government has made one thing clear, that the plea for forgiveness is far from enough. The government has also suggested that reconciliation of the distressing history is still a work in progress.&nbsp;

During his historic tour of Canada, the 85-year-old pontiff is seeking forgiveness for the Catholic Church's role in residential schools. These notorious schools are accused of carrying out government policies aimed at assimilating natives by trying to erase their cultures.&nbsp;

Pope Francis arrived in Quebec City to meet Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Governor General Mary Simon at her Quebec residence. The official government reaction came after that.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="Chinese woman spent years writing fake Russian history on Wikipedia">Chinese woman spent years writing fake Russian history on Wikipedia</a>&nbsp;

Trudeau insisted that the Catholic Church as an institution is to be blamed for the atrocities and needed to do more to atone. He said, "Apologies for the role that the Roman Catholic Church, as an institution, played in the mistreatment of the spiritual, cultural, emotional, physical and sexual abuse that Indigenous children suffered in residential schools run by the church."&nbsp;

The Canadian PM implied that much more needed to be done by the church. He also said that Francis' visit had "an enormous impact" on survivors, it was but a first step.&nbsp;

As quoted by news agency AP, Phil Fontaine, who is a survivor of sexual abuse at the schools and former national chief of the Assembly of First Nations, said Wednesday that the additional reference to "local Catholic institutions" went beyond Francis' original apology.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-justice-departments-gets-a-fresh-warrant-to-search-trumps-lawyer-phone-501457">US Justice Department gets a fresh warrant to search Trump's lawyer phone</a>

Fontaine said in a statement, "It reflects the reality that the Catholic Church in Canada is not one institution. It is made up of about 73 different legal institutions, all of which were defendants in the lawsuits."&nbsp;

It is said&nbsp;that more than 150,000 native children in Canada were taken from their homes from the 19th century until the 1970s.&nbsp;

The final report of&nbsp;National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, which was concluded in 2019, it was found that the Canadian state has perpetrated genocide against Indigenous peoples.&nbsp;

It was said that this genocide is the underlying cause of the contemporary murders and disappearances of Indigenous women and girls.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Pope Francis recently apologised for the abuses inflicted on the Indigenous peoples of Canada. But the Canadian government has made one thing clear, that the plea for forgiveness is far from enough.

Pope Francis recently apologised for the abuses inflicted on the Indigenous peoples of Canada. But the Canadian government has made one thing clear, that the plea for forgiveness is far from enough. The government has also suggested that reconciliation of the distressing history is still a work in progress. During his historic tour of Canada, the 85-year-old pontiff is seeking forgiveness for the Catholic Church's role in residential schools. These notorious schools are accused of carrying out government policies aimed at assimilating natives by trying to erase their cultures. Pope Francis arrived in Quebec City to meet Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Governor General Mary Simon at her Quebec residence. The official government reaction came after that. ALSO READ | Chinese woman spent years writing fake Russian history on Wikipedia Trudeau insisted that the Catholic Church as an institution is to be blamed for the atrocities and needed to do more to atone. He said, "Apologies for the role that the Roman Catholic Church, as an institution, played in the mistreatment of the spiritual, cultural, emotional, physical and sexual abuse that Indigenous children suffered in residential schools run by the church." The Canadian PM implied that much more needed to be done by the church. He also said that Francis' visit had "an enormous impact" on survivors, it was but a first step. As quoted by news agency AP, Phil Fontaine, who is a survivor of sexual abuse at the schools and former national chief of the Assembly of First Nations, said Wednesday that the additional reference to "local Catholic institutions" went beyond Francis' original apology. ALSO READ | US Justice Department gets a fresh warrant to search Trump's lawyer phone Fontaine said in a statement, "It reflects the reality that the Catholic Church in Canada is not one institution. It is made up of about 73 different legal institutions, all of which were defendants in the lawsuits." It is said that more than 150,000 native children in Canada were taken from their homes from the 19th century until the 1970s. The final report of National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, which was concluded in 2019, it was found that the Canadian state has perpetrated genocide against Indigenous peoples. It was said that this genocide is the underlying cause of the contemporary murders and disappearances of Indigenous women and girls. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pope's apology not enough for abuses of Indigenous kids, Canadian govt says more needed to be done to atone

Pope Francis making the first visit to Canada by the head of the catholic church in two decades. He has offered an apology to the country's indigenous people. The Pontiff is engaged in what the Vatican calls a pilgrimage of penance over the church's role in the abuse of indigenous children in residential schools.

Pope Francis in Canada: Pope says 'sorry' to school survivors

In his first public remarks in Canada, Pope Francis has asked indigenous residential school survivors for forgiveness.

Canada: In his first address to residential school survivors, Pope Francis says he is 'deeply sorry'

Pope Francis is in Canada on a 'pilgrimage of penance'. He's going to seek apologies from Canada's indigenous communities which the church tormented for 2 centuries. What crimes did the Church commit? Palki Sharma reports.

Gravitas: Pope arrives in Canada on 'pilgrimage of penance'

canada

Canada, News on Canada, stories on Canada, articles on Canada, Canada stories at Wion, Canada news, Canada latest news