Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I recognize Mr. Patterson has indicated that it's the process that Members had questioned. But, at the same time, when you read all the comments which I did, I recognize some Members felt it "inappropriate." "Inappropriate" is a totally different word, in comparison with parliamentary procedures and determinations of parliamentary language, with "irresponsible." Looking through unedited Hansard, Mr. Speaker, the word "irresponsible" was only used by the honourable Member for Iqaluit.
Mr. Speaker, I also wish to refer to the ruling you made this afternoon, which I thank you for and respect. You indicated that you would not permit comments, whether written or spoken, in the Legislature which have a tendency to question the personal integrity of others outside the House or impute motives to those unable to respond. Unfortunately, I was not in the House on March 10th and I was unable to respond to the comments which were imputed towards myself which I did not appreciate. As I said to the media, and it may be unparliamentary, I found it to be a cowardly act because it was something that was spoken behind my back when I was away.