Mixed reaction in Igloolik to ex-priest Eric Dejaeger's sentence

In Igloolik, some of the victims of former priest Eric Dejaeger were relieved to hear his sentence, while others say it does not go far enough.

Dejaeger was sentenced Wednesday to 19 years in prison for 32 sex crimes. The crimes were committed three decades ago in Igloolik, mostly against children.

William Qamukaq, a community justice outreach worker in the community, says victims' feelings are mixed.​

"Some of them may feel that the sentence was too light, some of them may have felt it was too short, but of course it's a relief for them to know how many years he has."

After charges were laid in Igloolik in 1995, Dejaeger fled to his native Belgium.

Lieve Halsberghe, a human rights activist in Belgium, campaigned to have Dejaeger returned to Canada to face the charges. 

"Five years ago we never thought this was possible. I was afraid I would hurt people in Canada, in Nunavut especially, by stirring up this old story," she said.

"But over the years and many people have told me that bringing him back to justice was extremely important for the people."

Halsberghe says she hopes the sentence provides some closure for victims, and she hopes they will now be able to move on with their lives.

"They will need a lot of help, but it's a very important date today to start this closure and to turn the page and to try to have a happy life after this because now they've finally regained possession of their lives."

Report sexual abuse: RCMP

Nunavut RCMP are using the opportunity to encourage people to speak up about sexual abuse, especially against children.

Spokesperson Sgt. Yvonne Niego says police are aware it's often difficult for people to discuss these very personal crimes, but the officers are trained to handle these delicate cases.

"When we are dealing with something like this, it's important that people in our communities are able to talk," she said.

"Younger children can't often speak for themselves but sometimes they can exhibit certain behaviours."

She says Nunavummiut have to be aware of the dangers for children and provide a different kind of guidance today than they did in the past. Niego also says parents should know where their children are at all times.