Debates of May 17, 2007 (day 9)

Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker…(Translation)…Members of the Legislative Assembly are often called upon to represent and show support for their constituents in a wide variety of situations. It is a fundamental part of our job that every issue, every complaint and every person should get equal attention from his or her MLA.

Last week, I wrote a letter calling for a lenient sentence for a constituent convicted of sexual assault. It was not my intention to condone the actions of this man or in any way make light of the seriousness of his crime. Sexual assault and other acts of violence, particularly against women, are inexcusable. Every person who is in a position of leadership must condemn such acts without hesitation or qualification.

My letter was not intended to lessen the seriousness of this crime or its impact on the victim. Rather, my intention was to act for the well-being of the other victims, the family who rely on his income for support.

Mr. Speaker, I now realize that this letter showed a lack of sensitivity for the victim, who showed great courage to press charges in the first place. I also understand that letters such as these send a message that acts of violence against women are acceptable or less serious than other crimes. They are not.

Mr. Speaker, I wish to offer my sincere apology to the victim for my lack of sensitivity and poor judgement. I also wish to apologize for any additional pain and suffering my actions have caused her family. Leaders must not only support those who request help, but also fully contemplate the implications of their actions on others. I will do my best to meet the standards in the future. Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you, Members. (Translation ends)

Members of the Legislative Assembly are often called upon to represent and show support for their constituents in a wide variety of situations. It is a fundamental part of our job that every issue, every complaint and every person should get equal attention from his or her MLA.

Last week, I wrote a letter calling for a lenient sentence for a constituent convicted of sexual assault. It was not my intention to condone the actions of this man or in any way make light of the seriousness of his crime. Sexual assault and other acts of violence, particularly against women, are inexcusable. Every person who is in a position of leadership must condemn such acts without hesitation or qualification.

My letter was not intended to lessen the seriousness of this crime or its impact on the victim. Rather, my intention was to act for the well-being of the other victims, the family who rely on his income for support.

Mr. Speaker, I now realize that this letter showed a lack of sensitivity for the victim, who showed great courage to press charges in the first place. I also understand that letters such as these send a message that acts of violence against women are acceptable or less serious than other crimes. Mr. Speaker, they are not.

Mr. Speaker, I wish to offer my sincere apology to the victim for my lack of sensitivity and poor judgement. I also wish to apologize for any additional pain and suffering my actions have caused her family. Leaders must not only support those who request help, Mr. Speaker, but also fully contemplate the implications of their actions on others. Mr. Speaker, I will do my best to meet the standards in the future. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Mahsi, Members.

Thank you, Mr. Lafferty. Before I go to the orders of the day, colleagues, I would like to draw your attention to the gallery and the presence of a former Member of this House, former Speaker Sam Gargan.

---Applause