Hunter Tootoo apologizes for 'consensual but inappropriate relationship'

Nunavut's MP and former federal cabinet minister Hunter Tootoomade a statement Wednesday, finally addressing allegations he had an inappropriate relationship before his sudden resignation from cabinet and Liberal caucus this May.

"I made a mistake and regrettably engaged in a consensual but inappropriate relationship, and that iswhy I resigned," he saidin the CBC newsroom inIqaluitthis afternoon.

"I am ashamed, and Iapologize to all involved, especially the people ofNunavut. Iam deeply sorry."

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Tootoo called the station earlier this afternoon to announce he was coming in to make a statement.

Tootoo resigned suddenly from cabinet in May, saying he was leaving the Liberal caucus for addictions treatment.

"On May 31, Ivoluntarily informed the prime minister that Imade a mistake," said Tootoo.

"That is why Iresigned my cabinet post and my position in caucus. Ithen checked myself into rehab for my addiction."

Tootoo refused to offer more information on the individual involved.

"The individual has asked me to protect her privacyand Iam respecting those wishes, and Iask that you respect that wish," he said.

Much as he did inhis statement last Wednesday, at the opening of his Iqaluit office,Tootoospoke about hisaddiction.

"I let my judgment be clouded, and Ihave also let alcohol take over my life."

The Prime Minister's Office issued a statement shortly after Tootoo's announcement.

The statement confirmed that Tootoo communicated with the PMO onMay 31.

"Hunter Tootoo acknowledged to the prime minister that he had been engaging in what was an inappropriate relationship in the workplace."

The statement noted that Tootoowould be "withdrawing from his ministerial responsibilities and from the Liberal caucus, and taking steps to address his addiction issues."

"In the same conversation, Mr. Tootoo informed the prime minister that he took full and sole responsibility for his inappropriate workplace conduct."

The Prime Minister's Office also refused to offer information about the individuals involved in order to protect their privacy.