Quebec politician Gerry Sklavounos has taken a leave of absence and will not be returning to the National Assembly for the time being.
The father of two stepped down from the Liberal caucus on Oct. 20, a day after Alice Paquet said she was the victim of a “violent” sexual assault by a member of the National Assembly in 2014 while she was working as a hostess at a Quebec City restaurant.
READ MORE: More complaints of inappropriate behaviour against Quebec MNA Gerry Sklavounos: CAQ
In a letter, the MNA for Laurier-Dorion describes how the allegations have greatly impacted him, saying he’s relying on the support of family and friends.
He did not indicate how long he will be away from his job.
In part, his letter states:
“Over the last couple of days, the public declarations that have put my conduct into question have quickly degenerated and affected my reputation as well as that of the person who put it into question,” Sklavounos wrote.
“In this context, it appeared appropriate to leave it up to authorities to conduct their delicate task, out of respect for everyone implicated.”
“In order not to hamper the investigation, I had to make the difficult but necessary choice to not comment any further on the situation.”
“I can only re-iterate that I have always acted with the greatest respect of the people I have hung out with and I hope light will be shed on this quickly.”
“At the recommendation of my friends and family, I have consulted a doctor, who prescribed a leave so that I can face this situation to the best of my abilities, with the support of my family.”
READ MORE: Quebec Liberal MNA Gerry Sklavounos leaves caucus after ‘violent’ sexual assault allegations
There were various reactions from every party to Sklavounos’ letter.
“I will have absolutely no comment,” said Quebec Premier Philippe Couillard.
WATCH BELOW: MNA Gerry Sklavounos accused of sexual assault
Nathalie Roy, an MNA for the Coalition Avenir Quebec (CAQ) has encouraged other possible victims to come forward.
“It’s in his own conscience,” she stated.
“I think he has to step out, but that’s his choice, and he has the right.”
“I don’t think it would be wise for him to be here in the next few weeks, but if we’re going for a year inquiry, at some point he should do his work as an MNA, that’s what he’s paid for,” said Jean-François Lisée, Parti Québécois (PQ) leader.
Paquet first made the claim at a vigil for victims of sexual assault at Laval University, taking the microphone to announce publicly she had been sexually assaulted.
READ MORE: Laval University student alleges Liberal MNA sexually assaulted her
The 41-year-old backbencher has been an MNA since 2007.
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