Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I am here on the prerogative of the House. This unfortunate incident has caused me a lot of difficulty, as you know by what happened all last week. I did make a commitment when I was first elected that I would do the best of my abilities to uphold office of Cabinet, and also to do the best I could in terms of the portfolio that was assigned to me. I indicated at that time, it didn't matter which department I was given.
To my colleagues here, I appreciate Mr. McLeod. He doesn't know the circumstances of what has happened, but I did, as Mr. McLeod indicated, apologize to the House. It's unfortunate that some Members of this House feel more than what I have done. I have indicated that I am going to be doing self-help in terms of healing myself. I made a commitment to that. I have done that by going away this weekend. For some Members, that's not enough; it's way beyond that.
Last week a number of Members said in the House, when they were questioning the Premier with regard to my conduct and my portfolio that I have, I think every one of them indicated that I have done a good job as a Minister for the last six months or since my appointment. I realize that this whole situation has gone way beyond the control of some of us. I am at the privy of you and if that's the wish of the Assembly, it's unfortunate it had to go that far, but by doing everything that the Members have asked of me, I have made a commitment. It seems as though it's not enough for them for me to sit on this side of the House.
It's unfortunate, but as some have said, I will be strong and look after myself. I was hoping that with the Members' consideration and feeling of their heart, it doesn't seem as though some will go that route. So with that, Mr. Speaker, obviously I will be voting against the motion. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.