Mr. Speaker, it is with regret that I find myself standing here before the House at the bar but it is understandable that I find myself here.
It was wrong for me to take the Mace, the symbol of the dignity and authority of the House, into my hands as a gesture of protest. I have reflected on my actions and have had the benefit of hearing my colleagues speak eloquently about this place and about the respect that must be accorded to it.
I apologize to you, Mr. Speaker, and to all members of the House for my actions. I ask that you accept this apology in the spirit in which it is afforded.