Turnbull apologises for disrespectful remarks
Second District Representative Melvin “Mitch” Turnbull has issued a public apology to Minister of Education Sharie de Castro following remarks he made during a previous House of Assembly (HOA) sitting.
During a recess earlier this month, Turnbull reportedly told de Castro to “sit down and shut up.”
Speaking in the HOA today, Turnbull acknowledged his comments and expressed regret. He noted that he had already apologised privately the day after the incident but was unsure if de Castro had received it. As a result, he decided to read his apology publicly.
“I am writing to formally apologize for the remarks made in our recent exchange during the recess of the House of Assembly sitting, a matter which has understandably raised concern,” he stated.
Turnbull admitted that his words were made in the heat of the moment but were not meant to be offensive.
“The phrase which was uttered during a moment of heated negotiations, using our cultural dialect, was intended in jest as part of our reciprocal exchange,” he explained.
However, he recognised that his statement was derogatory and uncalled for, emphasising that it did not reflect his true level of respect for de Castro.
“It was never my intention to cause offence or to diminish the respect that I have for you—not only as a respected colleague in the House but also as a cherished family member,” Turnbull said.
He assured de Castro that he holds her in high regard and regretted that his words may have suggested otherwise.
Minister accepts apology
In response, de Castro publicly accepted Turnbull’s apology before the House resumed its sitting.
At the time of the remarks, she had called for greater respect among members, referencing Standing Order 48-4, which prohibits offensive and insulting language in the House. “While the Opposition and the Government may disagree, it must be done in a respectful manner,” she stated.
The Minister also expressed disappointment over the incident, emphasising: “I do not take it lightly at all.”
She had previously indicated her intention to formally address the matter, demanding an apology from Turnbull, which she has now received.
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Quite a gentleman, this could give a soft heart on the government side to work together with the opposition since hold each other on high regards.
As someone who thought his comment was not only rude, misogynistic, and disrespectful to his colleague, and the HOA itself, I was also of the belief that a public apology was in order. I am pleased to see he has done so.
His apology appears sincere, and now that it’s been accepted, let’s hope they can move on with professionalism and respect for each other while undertaking the peoples business.
What each member of the HOA should understand is that people are watching and listening. Many young people are observing what they do. They should always conduct themselves respectfully despite heated discussions which one can understand and expect from time to time.
Be good role models to our young people who are struggling today and the country as a whole. Respect yourselves and engage in civil discourse, and others will respect you.
I give him credit for doing the right thing here. Lets move on.
SOFT LITTLE BWOY!
You did the right thing by issuing a public apology to the Education Minister. Just move forward and continue to do the work that you have been doing.