This HuffPost Canada page is maintained as part of an online archive.

David McGuinty Resigns As Liberal Natural Resources Critic After Controversial Comments

RESIGNED

Liberal MP David McGuinty has offered his resignation as the Natural Resources critic to interim party leader Bob Rae Tuesday evening.

"I have offered my resignation as energy and natural resources critic to my leader, and he has accepted. I look forward to continuing to serve my constituents in the House of Commons," McGuinty wrote in a release.

McGuinty drew criticism over his remarks on Alberta Tories for their protectionist and provincial energy policies on Tuesday.

Sun Media reports that McGuinty suggest that Alberta Tory MPs in Parliament were shills for the oil industry and said that they should "go back to Alberta." He has since apologized for his comments and will continue with his duties as an MP in the Ottawa South riding.

"As Member of Parliament for Ottawa South I would like to unreservedly and unequivocally apologize for comments which I made with respect to Parliamentary colleagues from the province of Alberta," wrote McGuinty, in the release. "My words in no way reflect the views of my party or leader, and I offer my apology to them as well as my colleagues from Alberta."

Interim party leader Bob Rae apologized on McGuinty's behalf, prior to his resignation, suggesting that McGuinty's comments were out of line.

For the time being, Rae has asked that MP Marc Garneau become the interim critic for Natural Resources, in addition to his duties as House Leader.

This is a developing story.

With files from the Canadian Press

Also on HuffPost

Close
This HuffPost Canada page is maintained as part of an online archive. If you have questions or concerns, please check our FAQ or contact support@huffpost.com.