OTTAWA – Conservative Senator Lynn Beyak has issued a statement following her removal from the Senate Aboriginal Peoples Committee:
“I would like to once again sincerely thank all the people who have written and phoned me in the past few weeks to express their support. Since the announcement regarding my removal from the Aboriginal Peoples Committee yesterday, public and other support has been building and is truly inspiring.
“As a Senator, it is my duty and privilege to speak on behalf of Canadians. This is a responsibility I take very seriously. Although a deeper sense of pride in my fellow Canadians – including many Aboriginal Canadians who have sent messages of support – is what I have gained most from this experience, it has also been revealing how difficult it is becoming to have a balanced, truthful discussion about all issues affecting Canadians.
“Political correctness is stifling opinion and thoughtful conversation that we must be allowed to have if we are to truly improve our great country. For me to lose my position on the Aboriginal Peoples Committee for complimenting the work of nurses, teachers, foster families and legions of other decent, caring Canadians – along with highlighting inspiring stories spoken by Aboriginal people themselves – is a serious threat to freedom of speech.
“Too often, on a broad range of issues, a vocal minority cries foul and offence whenever a point of view is raised that does not align with their own. Meanwhile the silent majority, who are contributing to this country by working, building and selling things, taking care of their parents and children, are left thinking they are alone.
“To those Canadians I say you are not alone. You are the majority as has been shown to me with all the support I have received. I will continue you represent you and your views on Parliament Hill.”
