MILGAARD FAMILY AND PROVINCE SETTLE ON COMPENSATION PACKAGE

Released on May 17, 1999

Saskatchewan Justice Minister John Nilson and Hersh Wolch, Q.C.,

counsel for David Milgaard, today announced that a settlement on

compensation has been reached.



The total value of the compensation package is $10 million, which

includes compensation for pain and suffering, lost income,

out-of-pocket expenses and legal fees.



"This has been a complex and difficult matter because of its unique

nature. However, throughout this process our government has remained

committed to achieving fair compensation for the Milgaards," Nilson

said.



Nilson acknowledged the assistance of the Honourable Alan B. Gold in

negotiating the settlement.



"Judge Gold was a valuable member of the legal team and his assistance

was crucial in reviewing and assessing the issues associated with this

unprecedented case," Nilson said.



The federal government will contribute $4 million to this compensation

package.



"The circumstances of Mr. Milgaard's case are both tragic and

unprecedented. I am very pleased that an agreement has been

reached that appropriately recognized the pain and financial

hardship experienced by Mr. Milgaard and his mother and offers

them security as they go on with their lives." federal Justice

Minister Anne McLellan said.



"The compensation package recognizes the harm suffered by David

and his family over the past three decades," Wolch said. "It

addresses their many injuries and provides them the means to

rebuild their lives."



Nilson said the Government of Saskatchewan also remains committed

to holding a public inquiry into the investigation of the death

of Gail Miller and the subsequent conviction of David Milgaard.

The inquiry will proceed as soon as it is clear it will not

interfere with any criminal proceedings.



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For more information:



Debi McEwen

Saskatchewan Justice

Regina

Phone: 787-6043

e-mail: dmcewen@justice.gov.sk.ca