Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I do not think the discussions here today or this motion are about innocence or guilt in reference to the Premier and the allegations. It is about the process. I believe there is some merit in the motion. I also have some reservations regarding the amount of time that we have had to discuss it and have some dialogue with the people back in our ridings. I have had the opportunity to speak to some people regarding the issue and it was a mixed kettle of fish for the most. Some felt that the Premier should step down and some felt that he should not. Nevertheless, I have thought about this all week. I was home in my riding when the results of the review came out and had an opportunity to listen objectively to some of the comments that were being made. Mr. Speaker, it is difficult at the best of times to look at somebody across the floor and question their integrity or the allegations that are being directed toward them. Having said that, Mr. Speaker, I do not want to be made to feel intimated and I do not want to feel any type of political threat. I also do not want to make the Premier or his family feel they have been treated unfairly. Mr. Speaker, having said this, I am sure the Premier can understand my comments and my decision on this motion. I have heard at different times from Ministers across the floor to have the courage of your convictions. Mr. Speaker, at this point in time, I feel that, to coin an old phrase, a man has to do what a man has to do. As a result, Mr. Speaker, I will be supporting the motion. Thank you.
Kevin O'Brien on Motion 20-13(5): Request For Premier To Relinquish His Responsibilities
In the Legislative Assembly on June 1st, 1998. See this statement in context.
Motion 20-13(5): Request For Premier To Relinquish His Responsibilities
Item 16: Motions
May 31st, 1998
Page 1530
Kevin O'Brien Kivallivik
See context to find out what was said next.