Michael Higgins: Truth ignored as B.C. teacher fired for saying TB caused residential school deaths

After four decades as a teacher, Jim McMurtry was fired Tuesday for daring to speak out.

He first fell foul of authorities for speaking about the Kamloops Indian Residential School and for saying things not in line with official ideology.

Then he further transgressed by refusing to be silent when he was suspended. He criticized the school board, the process and the people behind his suspension.

It is quite likely that McMurtry would have a job today if he agreed to be muzzled, if he abrogated his right to free speech and if he had followed orders. Because his failure to do those three things is getting him canned.

The conclusion to a report that recommends his sacking is sparse, definitive, and chilling in its implications.