Yellowknife, N.W.T. - June 11 was a solemn, yet celebratory anniversary for survivors of residential schools in Canada.

It marked the fourth anniversary of the federal government's apology to aboriginal people for the years of abuse and maltreatment they received from those who ran the program for decades.

The GNWT didn't let the anniversary go unnoticed either.

Several members stood to make statements on behalf of the government.

Health and social services minister Tom Beaulieu said the work of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission has been no small task.

“The commission visited our communities, set up support and provided a forum to allow our survivors to share their pain and begin to heal,” he said.

He also said those who went through the system have had problems later in life, but there are also some positives which have come out as well.

"I see the effects of residential school experience reflected in our health and social services system, especially in mental health and addictions, yet I’m also inspired by the courage, faith, and determination of these survivors," he said.

Premier Bob McLeod officially thanked the TRC for the work they had done later in the day at a special ceremony in the Legislative Assembly's Great Hall.

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