Advertisement

We need your help now

Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.

You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.

If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.

Sorry

Canadian prime minister apologises for elbowing opposition MP

There was a heated exchange between Trudeau and leader of the New Democratic Party.

CANADIAN PRIME MINISTER Justin Trudeau has apologised to lawmakers after an altercation in which he accidentally struck a member of the opposition with his elbow.

The incident happened in the House of Commons during discussions for a physician-assisted suicide law.

Video of the incident showed Trudeau striding across the chamber toward a group of lawmakers standing on the floor and grabbing opposition whip Gord Brown by the arm, apparently to lead him to his seat so a vote on the measure could be held.

As he grabbed Brown’s arm, Trudeau struck MP Ruth Ellen Brosseau of the New Democratic Party and caused her to stumble backwards.

She said later she had been “elbowed in the chest by the prime minister.”

Storyful News / YouTube

NDP leader Tom Mulcair confronted Trudeau, pointing his finger at the prime minister while shouting, “You’re pathetic.”

Some lawmakers then flooded the floor, while other stood at their desks, watching the heated exchange.

Trudeau later apologised.

“I came in physical contact with a number of members as I extended my arm. I did not intend to offend or impact on anyone,” he said, adding that he apologised “unreservedly.”

The unusual scene in the Canadian parliament played out as the government works on legislation to permit consenting adults with serious health problems to end their suffering with assisted suicide.

- © AFP 2016.

Read: “We must demand true equality”: Canada introduces new laws protecting transgender people>

Read: Canada is going to legalise marijuana to “protect youth and enhance public safety”>

Your Voice
Readers Comments
28
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.
    JournalTv
    News in 60 seconds