I wish to agree with Mr. Laframboise in the sense that I am not trying in any way to exculpate myself. Responsibility is accepted. I was hoping that I would explain intent, that's all. There is nothing else. I think I'm in the hands of the committee in terms of whether the apology is acceptable. There's nothing that takes away from the fact that I made a mistake. It's my responsibility and not anyone else's. I respect the privileges of Parliament. I served 12 years in the legislature and Parliament combined, ten of them as chair of a committee, so I have great respect for the function of the committee. While I engaged this committee actively, that is my position. And I would certainly uphold that, by all means, in future participation in this committee and others.
On April 13th, 2010. See this statement in context.