I regret that actions on my part were perceived as a conflict of interest that caused difficulties for the organization that I proudly chair, the IDRC. The IDRC is important to the well-being of many people around the world – that is why I accepted the invitation of the Minister of Foreign Affairs to join the Board of Governors of  IDRC, why I support its objectives, and why I am committed to leading it into the future.

 

Throughout my career – in the private sector, as a Minister of the Crown, and now in the non-governmental sector - I have conducted myself with the highest ethical standards. My activities are public and my motives are transparent. At no time did I allow my presence on the Board of Imperial Tobacco to influence my judgment or my actions with respect to the issues of tobacco control or any other matter.

 

At the IDRC, contributions to tobacco control programs have more than doubled during my tenure. The decision to aggressively pursue tobacco control lies with management, not with the Board. As a Board, we do not consider or approve individual projects; instead, we are responsible for looking at the “bigger picture” in terms of how to promote social development globally. Nevertheless, let it be clear I fully subscribe to the organization’s objectives in this area and have said so publicly.

 

The Governors, management and staff of IDRC have borne an extraordinary burden over the past few weeks and months. Their loyalty to the organization speaks to the great strength and depth of IDRC, and to their own dedication and competence. I am proud to work with them and honoured by their continued support. As we go forward, we will be judged by our actions that hopefully will make IDRC stronger.