Marcel Aubut, ex-COC head, 'infinitely regrets' hurting people
Resigned after sexual harassment accusations
The former president of the Canadian Olympic Committee apologized today to those he hurt in a sexual harassment scandal that led to him stepping down.
"It's from the bottom of my heart and with all sincerity that I offer my apologies without reservation," Marcel Aubut said at a press conference on Friday in Montreal.
Without mentioning the accusations against him, Marcel said, "I infinitely regret to have hurt people who have not deserved it. I hope one day they will forgive me."
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Marcel said that in his 45-year career, he never stopped to ask himself about his behaviour.
"I must remind myself that society has changed, and it expects more respect between people, especially between men and women."
Marcel added that he has resigned from the BCF law firm. His profile page in the firm's website has been taken down.
The former COC chief said he is consulting with "experts" to help him change and "become a better person".
Formal complaint was withdrawn
Aubut left his post on Oct. 3, saying the allegations were a major distraction to the organization.
A formal complaint alleging sexual harassment against Aubut was filed to the COC by a female employee on Sept. 25.
Aubut stepped aside from his COC duties while the matter was being investigated, saying he "never intended to offend or upset anyone by anything he might have said in the performance of his duties."
One week later, two other women came forward with allegations and the investigation was expanded. The formal complaint was later withdrawn, but third-party investigations continue based on the other complaints.
There are no criminal proceedings against Aubut and the allegations have never been proven in court.
Tricia Smith, a B.C.-based lawyer and former Olympian, has taken over the COC as interim president.