Harel refuses to apologize for colonialism comment
Last Updated: Thursday, June 21, 2001 | 5:24 PM ET
CBC News
On Wednesday, Harel characterized Westmount's fight against municipal mergers as an anglophone project which reeks of colonialism.
"Her remarks were insulting to the intelligence to the citizens of Quebec," says Liberal leader Jean Charest, calling Harel's comments are "unacceptable".
"Reeks of colonialism"
During a heated debate over municipal mergers, Louise Harel said the resistance in Westmount to the municipal mergers amounts to an ethnic project which reeks of colonialism.
When asked if she would apologize, Harel asked why she would do such a thing.
"All I did was repeat what the lawyers for Westmount argued in court," she replied.
The comments have sparked outrage from people who live in Westmount. Mayor Peter Trent lashed out at the Parti Québécois, saying that that sort of comment may win some votes for Quebecers living in the regions, but it doesn't lend the government any credibility.
Premier Bernard Landry says that's just more Quebec bashing.
"Quebec bashing, it's well known. It's a sort of national sport." Landry says Harel explained her point of view and he says the minister has his full support.
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