More than 1,000 people acquired the AIDS-causing virus through blood and blood products distributed by the Canadian Red Cross before it started screening for the HIV antibody in 1985.

The victims told the Toronto Star Monday's apology is an important milestone in their fight for justice. The Canadian Red Cross pleaded guilty in a Hamilton, Ontario, to distributing an adulterated drug and now faces a fine and other payments that might exceed $1.5 million.

Toronto hemophiliac and lawyer James Kreppner told the Star he wasn't looking for a huge fine.

I was looking for them to accept responsibility, which they've done, finally, he said.

Canada's Biggest Public Health Disaster

As a result of what's been called Canada's biggest public health disaster, the Red Cross is spending millions on bankruptcy proceedings. Kreppner said the society has also created a $70 million victim compensation plan.

More than 1,000 people acquired the AIDS-causing virus through blood and blood products distributed by the Canadian Red Cross before it started screening for the HIV antibody in 1985, several months after the American Red Cross.

As many as 20,000 other people are believed to have been infected with hepatitis C before screening began in 1990 -- four years after American agencies decided to start testing.

The Canadian Red Cross Society will be sentenced June 30.