Yves Bolduc apologizes for library book comments

Quebec Education MinisterYves Bolduc has apologized for saying that school libraries have enough books.

Last week, Bolduc toldLe Devoir newspaperthat no child would die or stop reading because of fewer books in school libraries.

He was speaking in the context of budget cuts for the coming school year.

• Yves Bolduc, education minister, says schools have enough books

On Tuesday, Bolducapologized,calling his statement clumsy.

"[What I said] does not accurately represent my beliefs.I am someone who believes in the importance of reading."

Bolduc said he's now encouragingschool boards to prioritize purchasingbooks in their library budgets.

He said the government will take the steps necessary to make that possible.