Justin Trudeau apologises for ‘manhandling’ MPs in Canadian parliament (VIDEO)
The Canadian PM was accused of making MPs feel ‘unsafe’ following a heated session in the House Of Commons.
Justin Trudeau was forced to apologise yesterday, following a heated exchange, during which he accused of “manhandling” fellow MPs.
Footage from inside the House of Commons showed Trudeau – who has been praised for his staunch support of LGBT rights – striding purposefully across the floor of the chamber and into a group of MPs.
He then pulls Conservative Gord Brown by the arm to lead him to his seat so that parliament could begin a vote on assisted suicide.
Trudeau apparently swore as he made his way to Brown, reportedly telling MPs to “get the f**k out of the way”.
He also elbowed New Democrat MP Ruth Ellen Brosseau in the chest.
Parliament then quickly descended into mayhem as MPs shouted and smashed their desks, while opposition leader Tom Mulcair shouted at Trudeau.
“What kind of man elbows a woman? It’s pathetic! You’re pathetic!” Mulcair can be heard shouting.
Order was eventually restored, as Trudeau apologised for his actions.
“I admit I came in physical contact with a number of members as I extended my arm, including someone behind me who I did not see.
“If anyone feels that they were impacted by my actions, I completely apologise. It was not my intention to hurt anyone.”
However, not all were impressed by his attempts to make amends.
“I am ashamed to be a witness to the person who holds the highest position in our country do such an act,” said New Democrat Niki Ashton.
“He made us feel unsafe and deeply troubled by the conduct of the prime minister of this country.”
Trudeau has so far put equality at the heart of his leadership: championing LGBT rights and feminism, appointing a diverse, expert-led gender-balanced cabinet, speaking out against homophobia, and making history by marching at Pride.
What’s the exchange below:
