Hunter Tootoo apologizes for 'consensual but inappropriate relationship'

Nunavut's MP and former federal cabinet minister Hunter Tootoo made 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 is why I resigned," he said in the CBC newsroom in Iqaluit this afternoon. 

"I am ashamed, and I apologize to all involved, especially the people of Nunavut. I am deeply sorry."

• 'I believe in the Trudeau government,' says Hunter Tootoo upon return to office

• Hunter Tootoo evades questions about alleged sexual relationship with staff member

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, I voluntarily informed the prime minister that I made a mistake," said Tootoo.

"That is why I resigned my cabinet post and my position in caucus. I then 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 privacy and I am respecting those wishes, and I ask that you respect that wish," he said.

Much as he did in his statement last Wednesday, at the opening of his Iqaluit office, Tootoo spoke about his addiction.

"I let my judgment be clouded, and I have 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 on May 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 Tootoo would 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.