Debates of May 28, 2004 (day 15)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I listened to the debate in the House yesterday, and I would like to address a number of issues raised by Members. First of all, questions were raised about my attitude towards this matter in the House yesterday. I want to assure all Members that I consider this matter very serious. I would like to once again, Mr. Speaker, offer my sincere apology to the staff and members of the Royal Canadian Legion, and to any other people that I may have offended by my conduct on May 15th. I have also considered the concerns and questions raised by Members in question period yesterday concerning the steps I am taking to ensure that this incident does not occur again. Over the past couple of days, I have sought guidance from my family, my colleagues in this House, and from a number of my constituents about this matter. I have reached a decision to seek treatment and personal healing to deal with my problems. Mr. Speaker, effective immediately I will be leaving to begin this healing process. I’ve asked all Members for their forgiveness for my actions, and for my absence to deal with my healing. Thank you.

---Applause