Phillips returns from Caribbean getaway, forward of ‘tough conversation’ with Ford

Ontario Premier Doug Ford is predicted to have a “very tough conversation” with his finance minister Thursday over a controversial Caribbean vacation.

Rod Phillips returned to Toronto from St. Barts — where by he has been because Dec. 13 — previously in the morning.

Upon his arrival at Pearson International Airport, Phillips stated he “unreservedly” apologizes for his selection to travel during the vacations.

Relevant: Ontario’s finance minister apologizes right after obtaining caught paying vacations outside Canada

“I know that I unhappy a large amount of people today, I hope individuals recognize I upset no just one extra than myself,” he reported in a quick statement.

“I know that men and women are understandably offended about the condition. I do hope to be capable to get back their self-assurance in the times, weeks and months forward.”

Phillips stated previously this week he selected to go forward with the journey not realizing the province would be put under lockdown on Boxing Working day, and that he regretted the selection.

After his statement, Phillips was asked about his choice to travel, to which he replied: “I manufactured a major error in judgment and I will be accountable for that. I do not make any excuses for the truth that I travelled when we shouldn’t have travelled.”

Ford reported Wednesday he was not told about the vacation ahead of time, but did discover about it shortly just after it commenced, and must have demanded Phillips return immediately.

When requested why he didn’t notify Ford of his vacation proper absent, Phillips claimed, “Premier Ford has far extra vital factors to do than fear about the travel of his ministers or the people today who operate for him.”

“The blame is mine and the blame is mine alone.”

Phillips was also questioned if he will resign, and mentioned Ford has not questioned him to yet.

“That is one of the points I will be talking to the Premier about today … I consider that there is very important do the job that continue to needs to be completed and I would like to carry on to be a section of that.”

Previously this week, Ford claimed it is “unacceptable” for any public official to dismiss the province’s COVID-19 recommendations, which urge residents to avoid non-necessary travel.