Rogers Publishing is apologizing for the controversy caused by a recent Maclean's magazine cover that features Bonhomme Carnaval wielding a cash-stuffed suitcase to illustrate a story about Quebec corruption.

Rogers says it regrets any offence this cover may have caused. (CBC)The magazine, owned by Rogers, used the winter carnival mascot to accompany a feature story that argues Quebec is the most corrupt province in Canada.

The Canadian publishing giant issued a statement on Thursday, acknowledging widespread outrage sparked by its tongue-in-cheek use of Bonhomme's image, and of the article's contents.

"The cover of this issue and the feature story clearly offended some readers, and this has been the subject of much debate," said Rogers Publishing president Brian Segal, in a written statement.

"As a company, we own a broad range of media properties across the country, and editorial independence is an important cornerstone of our management philosophy. While challenging at times, this means we do not interfere with the editorial direction or content of our media properties in any way."

But the media conglomerate did not apologize for Maclean's thesis about Quebec corruption.

"On behalf of the company, we sincerely regret any offence that the cover may have caused. We value all of our customers and their perspective. Quebec is an important market for the company and we look forward to participating in the dynamic growth of the province and its citizens."

The four-page story galvanized Quebec's political classes in a rare show of solidarity, with politicians of all persuasions dismissing the report as Quebec bashing.

Premier Jean Charest demanded a formal apology to Quebecers, which Maclean's refused, saying Quebec politicians were the target, not the Québécois.

Quebec City's carnival has threatened legal action against Maclean's, alleging the magazine violated its intellectual property by using Bonhomme's image.