November 18, 2004
Ottawa, Ontario

“After speaking with the caucus executive earlier this afternoon, I am announcing my decision, effective immediately, to dismiss Carolyn Parrish from the government caucus.

I called her a short time ago and told her of my decision. I told her that, while I have defended her right to express her views frankly, I cannot, as Leader of our party and the government caucus, tolerate behaviour that demeans and disrespects others. It is unacceptable. There are better, more civil and more effective ways to make your case than those she has chosen.”